Kriegsmarine Watch Officers Badge (Wachhabenden-Offizier)

[Peter BL]

Hi Guys....I'm on the hunt for a nice original (Pre 45) Watch Officers badge. I've found a couple, the best one still retaining the gilt finish has 3 prongs. Question is, is this one wartime produced. Or is the second one I've posted a better example.

Thanks in advance.....Peter

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2011/post-3147-0-27331700-1323551366.jpghttp://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2011/post-3147-0-24147400-1323551377.jpg

[Peter BL]

second type

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2011/post-3147-0-09747100-1323551473.jpghttp://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2011/post-3147-0-49297200-1323551513.jpg

[Erik Krogh]

Hello Peter,

Well, you've picked a tough one to confirm as pre-45. There does not appear to be a consensus regarding the specific characteristics of a Third Reich original, as the same design was used post-45 in the Bundesmarine. The conventional wisdom on these is to let the badge's finish guide your originality opinion. Since both of the badges that you have posted appear to have a vintage look, you could probably choose either of them. In this case, originality is in the eye of the beholder.

For what it's worth, here is a scan of my badge, which resembles the second type that you have posted.

Erik

Edited December 11, 2011 by Erik Krogh

[Erik Krogh]

Reverse of my badge.

[Peter BL]

Thanks Erik...I think you're right. Possibly safer with the second type but I think I'll go for the 3 prong version mainly because it's retained its gilt finish... Interested to know what the base metal is on this one.

Nice example BTW... :cheers:

[gingerbread]

Hi

To share, mine:

Regards

Ben

[JULIOPWG14]

Mine, in tombak with enough use is second signals but in good condition.

Greetings from Madrid.

Julio.

[Peter BL]

Nice badges....definitely wartime period.

Here's my example in gilded tombak so I'm assuming this is also pre 1945.

Edited December 24, 2011 by Peter Baillie