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world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


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Rechroming vintage cameras

I collect vintage cameras. Most are "chrome" bodies (if, in fact, that is the true metal used). A few are "black chrome." (Leica, for example). Is there a means of replating the "chrome" bodies cameras in areas where the original plating has worn down to the underlying brass? Also, is there a means of touching up the "black chrome" bodies in areas where the black chrome finish has worn off? Are there home kits available for these small jobs?

Louis Visencio
- Camarillo, California, USA
2002

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Chrome plating solutions are toxic and carcinogenic and inappropriate for home or office use. However, there are bright and black plated finishes that are chrome-free. Use the search term 'brush plating' in our directory of Chemicals & Equipment and you will find some companies which serve the public with small plating systems. You might be better off sending the parts to a plating shop though.

And do not be tempted to graduate from plating your own collection to plating other peoples parts unless armed with a full understanding of the burdensome water treatment and waste monitoring regulations that are categorically applied to the electroplating industry.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002