Hand Welded Buckle Appraisal

Hand-Welded Stainless Steel Nuclear-Grade Tubing Belt Buckle

This is a circular artisan belt buckle handcrafted from stainless steel. According to historical context, it is constructed using hand-welded nuclear-grade tubing. The design features a complex geometric pattern composed of concentric circles and negative space. A large outer ring contains fourteen medium-sized hollow cylinders, which encircle a secondary inner ring of smaller cylinders. At the absolute center is a single hollow core, creating a target-like or industrial-mandala aesthetic. The fabrication is heavy-duty, utilizing the high-tensile strength and corrosion resistance of industrial stainless steel. Visually, the piece exhibits several fine surface scratches and scuffs consistent with moderate wear and age. The patina is typical of brushed steel, showing a matte-to-semi-gloss finish with a slightly metallic gray hue. The construction utilizes precision welding to fuse the disparate cylindrical sections into a singular, rigid structure. There are no visible maker's marks or stamps on the face, suggesting a custom or small-studio production. The style is industrial-modernist, likely dating from the late 20th century. The unique use of reclaimed or specialized 'nuclear tubing' adds significant provenance and interest to the piece, elevating it from a standard accessory to a work of industrial folk art.