Chrome is porous, thats why a reputable platers will plate with copper (?) first and then chrome after. good quality will last donkeys years. prep work is the real bugbear though, time invested will be rewarded later!
The reasons for using a paint finish instead of chrome plating are realy for environmental reasons. Its a very poluting process and in my experiance chips and rusts easily.
I have seen a powdercoat finish but not on a bike frame.
The thing is i dont like to show i have tried too hard! And a real chromium finish is just a bit dare i say seventies road forks. :roll:
The reasons for using a paint finish instead of chrome plating are realy for environmental reasons. Its a very poluting process and in my experiance chips and rusts easily.
Paint isnt much better for the environment either unless you are going water based and thats about as durable as wrapping your bike in bog roll
To be honest if "the environment" is such a big concern why not just leave it as it is? No harmful chemicals required.. If your going to be a hypocirte you might as well go the full length of the field and get it acid etched, galvanized then nickel plated