Charlie Mike

So, every week of this diet on the day I take my pictures I also weigh myself and check my body fat % (using an electrical impedance type hand held device). So, here are the trends. 

Under the guidance of an interpreter who has competed and worked as a personal trainer in Miami, I have lost an about 2 lbs per week.  I am about ready to throw the BF monitor out the window for 2 reasons.  1) if I enter in correct data (adjust for my weight loss), then use the correct posture (hold device straight, arms at shoulder level, 90 degrees to my body) when I measure, it never seems to change from 15-15.5%.  2) Alternatively, if I use correct data and only bend my arms at my elbows to attain a 90 angle with my body, the reading drops about 1 point per week (reasonable given my weight, then 2lbs is about 1% of my weight). HOWEVER… that leaves me with a current BF% of approx 12% (my week six measurment).  When I look at other guys (not pros or competitors mind you, just fitness minded)  on this site who claim 11,12, 13% they seem to be quite a bit leaner or defined than what I have attained. 

My lifting, while I haven’t seemed to have any strength gains like I was when I was less "regimented" in my nutrition, has not suffered either.  Rather more of a "status-quo" or maintaining - so I am doubtful of the unmoving 15%.  If that were the case I would be losing about 1lb muscle and 1lb fat per week - this I think would negatively impact my strength.  On the other hand a visual comparison to other physiques leads me to mistrust the (improperly obtained but consistently reducing) second  measurement. 

Anyone have any thoughts?  Is it possible that my now loose skin combined with puffiness of water are truly that prevalent in my composition so as to have such a visual impact? In the current environment the water retention is not necessarily a bad thing.  Would using calipers be more accurate?  Or am I just being too impatient (again)?

Believe me I am happy with the results that I am getting.  To that end I will continue until the picture is "in line" with the mental picture of my goal. However, it does seem that something is amiss here.