Cairo Made S.A.S.?

[JBCannon]

I picked this up at the MAX show a couple of weeks ago, and frankly bought it as a reproduction. I do not think the dealer knew what it was, and was just trying to move it. Now that I have really examined it against the published originals and some that I have, I find that it compares quite well. Could I have found a real gem, or is it a damned good fake? Your thoughts please.
Jim

[Jack8]

Hi Jim, it looks like a good one to me, where is the MAX show by the way?

Jack

[JBCannon]

Jack;
Thanks for pitching in. The MAX (Military Antiques Xtravaganza) is a 1000+ table show held once a year in Pittsburgh.
Jim

[HamandJam]

Hi Jim,

Looks like you have found a real gem indeed. It looks good. Does it also feel like a 70 year + badge if you have it in the flesh?


I have seen extremely good copies but which looked/ feeled brand new, totally pristine which made them suspect.


On the looks it ticks all the boxes though.


Cheers,
JB

Originally Posted by JBCannon

I picked this up at the MAX show a couple of weeks ago, and frankly bought it as a reproduction. I do not think the dealer knew what it was, and was just trying to move it. Now that I have really examined it against the published originals and some that I have, I find that it compares quite well. Could I have found a real gem, or is it a damned good fake? Your thoughts please.
Jim

[popskipa]

The badge looks real to me too.

Image attached of Len Whittaker's original for comparison...

Keith

[JBCannon]

JB;
Thanks for the reply. It is in pristine condition, and that did put me off a bit originally. The original owner may have mailed it home on issue as a keepsake or picked up an extra for a souvenir. In hand it does have that feel of quality that hand embroidery from that time is known for. I particularly like the paper backing.
Jim

[JBCannon]

Popskipa;
Thanks for joining in. I am feeling much more confident that I have a winner here.
Jim

[castagain]

Looks like a good one, Jim, well done. One of the Forum members has a worn example in his album that is identical to yours in materials and construction. It's his badge, so I defer to him on posting the photo. I've been lucky enough to go to the MAX Show, found some of my best WW2 insignia there. It's an incredible sight when you walk into the show area, more tables of militaria than you can see in one day.

Best wishes,
Donovan

[JBCannon]

Donovan;
Thanks for joining in. I'm very fortunate that the show is only 10 minutes form my house; it would be bad form if I didn't show up! Although it is mostly German stuff, sometimes we American and British collectors get lucky. Regards.
Jim

[WWIIBuff]

Congratulations Jim!!! What a fantastic find.

I'm going to the Show of Shows next spring looking for British and Commonwealth items, so hopefully I have similar luck.

[JBCannon]

Buff;
SOS is supposedly the best show going. I have not been there, but hope to eventually. Book your hotel room early, I hear!
Jim

[WWIIBuff]

The SoS is the best militaria show in the US in my opinion. I've been 7 or 8 times, but not the last few years, so I am looking forward to getting back there again.