Enter your observations
Use measurements you can verify. Unknown or unreadable details can be left unspecified where the tool allows it.
Tick concerns supported by observation or a comparison reference—not assumptions based on age, smell, or a seller’s story.
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How to use this tool
- Inspect casting seams, protected recesses, markings, fastening methods and wear patterns without scraping the surface.
- Compare dimensions and weight with a trusted, documented example where possible.
- Tick only discrepancies you can describe and record your source quality.
- Use the caution score to prioritize research, then seek independent examination for high-value items.
What the result means
The checklist assigns simple caution points to specific discrepancies. Higher totals mean there are more or more significant items to investigate—not a calculated probability of reproduction. The same feature can have more than one explanation: cleaning, repainting, repair, casting variation, or reproduction.
Strong comparisons depend on known originals or reliable catalogue records for the exact model, maker and period. Weight and dimensions can be useful when a specification is known; a general impression that an object “feels old” is much weaker evidence.
Limits and good practice
Reproductions can deliberately imitate seams, corrosion, tool marks, paint aging and fasteners. Original items can also be restored, stripped, repaired or modified. Do not remove paint or scrape corrosion to test age. Use provenance and multiple independent references, and obtain specialist assessment for consequential purchases.
References and further research
Frequently asked questions
Does a high score prove a reproduction?
No. It means multiple concerns should be investigated. Original pieces can be altered, repaired or restored, and reproductions can conceal warning signs.
Does rust or old-looking paint prove age?
No. Surface aging can be simulated and original finishes may be renewed. Compare the whole object and documented examples.
How important are exact weight and dimensions?
They are useful when you have a reliable specification for the exact model. Without one, the values have little comparative meaning.
What is a trusted comparison?
A museum or specialist catalogue record, documented original example, archival record or a well-supported reference for the same model.
Should I scrape paint or corrosion to inspect the casting?
No. Destructive inspection can harm original material and may remove evidence. Use non-destructive observation and qualified advice.
What should I do before an expensive purchase?
Preserve seller claims and provenance documents, compare independent sources, and obtain an appraisal or examination by a specialist who is not the seller.