Reini

Now , some shots of the hinges showing why I think these were assembled at the same time. How could they rivet the eagle later without disturbing the hinge? I will show that these hinges were made using indentical manufacturing processes in the photos yet to come.

And another , but this angle was tough to light.

again...one can vaguely see the circle around the hook on the E2 (bottom badge).

Now , a quick look at the two hooks. They are a perfect match!

Now the reverses...

Hello, As usual , I am always learning how much I have to learn. I've posted my unmarked B&NL Flak badge elsewhere on the forum. Then , I later added a rather rough looking marked example , but didn't think it worthy of more photos. Recently , I've purchased a third , marked example and thought I might pass on the lesser marked badge. Then , I was informed the 2nd badge has this other 'questionable' eagle and sure enough , they were different. I had noticed something in my side by side photos , but the very complicated reverse was perfect , as was the mark , so I really didn't think much of it. My 3rd badge has the 'genuine' eagle , so I will have three different versions of this badge. I thought I might be in the unique position to take some nice side by side photos of these two badges , in hope that we can come closer to a conclusion on this second type eagle. I will refer to the 'genuine' eagle as E1 and the 'questionable' as E2 from now on to save typing. In the following photos , I will be comparing my first two , unmarked E1 and marked E2 , and have a theory I like to pose. Hopefully , others can either confirm , debunk , or add to this. Here it is. I am , in my mind , positive these wreaths are perfect matches , as well as the hooks and their embedment. Now , these eagles seem to be either part of the hinge mechanism or , at very least , embedded in the zink at the same time. I will show how the hinges on these badges are very closley related , making me think these eagles may have been affixed at the same time as the hinge. This is the part of the theory with which I have the most doubt , but I still think it is the most probably explanation. Another interesting point is the difference in condition of the E2 to the wreath to which it is attached. The eagle is not corroded , but the wreath is. This makes me lean in the direction of the 'add on' eagle , which is why part of that theory is questionable , I concede. The first are side by sides of the two badges. Then , some close ups. Please , let me know what you think! Best Kurt

Thanks! It's good to have another in the plus column. This is one of my favorite badges. Hopefully , I can add a first pattern someday. Best Kurt

Here is a shot of that area. Under magnification , one can see it is somewhat porous. Sometimes , dirt or dust can cause this when metal is struck into coins and such. Best Kurt

WOW! Those are both absolutely stunning! Maybe someday I will be so lucky as to be first on the scene to the sale of one of those! Just awesome! Best Kurt

Badge is good , a 2nd pattern , I think. The case is a new one on me , but the glue looks right. The hinge is pretty big , but I don't think that's a problem. I'm leaning towards the thumbs up on it , too. Nice! Best Kurt

Steve, I will add some photos soon of the back of that wing. I don't have the badge here right now , but I seem to remember those marks being 'tick' marks , perhaps made by contact with something like a pin or needle. I'll try to give a better description when I post the photos. Best Kurt

Here is a full shot of the front. Best Kurt

and the other...the detail on the wings looks more refined on the later badge , to my eyes. Best Kurt

I was referring mainly to the face and talons on the eagle , as well as the wings which I realize now you may not have seen. This badge is in another thread , but I'll post more pics here now. I certainly did not mean to detract from your badge in any way , but I suspect you know that. First is the eagle's left wing. Best Kurt

I don't like it. I've seen this eagle on complete fakes. Also , doesn't it look to have cast marks around the rim of the reverse of the wreath? Best Kurt

and finally a close up of the exterior texture. Thanks! Best Kurt

Here is a better pic of the glue...

This shot shows the profile of the insert...

and again...

Marcus, Here are some more shots. Please , don't hold back. The outside texture is similar to a texture I've seen on fakes , but they are never this well-made. Thanks for any help and thank you again for your opinions on the P/O case in the other thread! Best Kurt

I must agree with everyone else that this looks good. The eagle is very similar to that on my IMME 'variant' , just slightly cruder. It surely looks like this was the first attempt and the eagle was refined to look like the pic I've attached. There is some debate about my badge , but there is little doubt when one is holding it in hand. A full set of the IMME series is going to be difficult! Nice badge! I'm jealous! Best Kurt

and the hinge...Thanks! Best Kurt

the clasp...

Here is the insert removed. One can see the proper glue was used...