SS Belt buckle opinions please

[SteveM]

Had this in the SS forum and was told this was the place to go. Haven't bought this yet and don't know a thing about SS buckles. Any ideas on originality appreciated.

Thanks

[Jean Pierre Redeuilh]

Had this in the SS forum and was told this was the place to go. Haven't bought this yet and don't know a thing about SS buckles. Any ideas on originality appreciated.

Thanks

Steve,
It is an East European fake. This fake cast from an original 36/38 is not as widely distributed as reproduced 36/40 or 822/37, but still available from time to time (your been the best example). This one is rather recently produced since the aluminum color is not the obvious dull gray of the first and second generation of those fakes, and there is no dark area within the grooves of the design. But, even if there is more, let me tell you three things which are remaining very obvious: one is the pitting this buckle shows (prongs are a nightmare), second is the length of prongs (too short for a genuine 36/38) and last the "crunch" on the post sleeve right behind the prongs (I am adding a photo of an original 36/38 for your convenience so you can easily compare).

[Jean Pierre Redeuilh]

Original 36/38 Postsleeve

[SteveM]

Thanks

Jean Pierre

Thanks for the reply. I just knew I was stepping into it with this piece. If it's o.k. I'll keep your photos for future reference.

Regards, and thanks again.
Steve