I've been thinking about re-finishing my Tethys (from age and brake dust stain, hit a couple of curbs, etc.) and decided to consider getting them plated rather than painting myself the same color as OEM.

If anybody has any experience in this or knowledge/advice let me know - especially some ballpark $$$. I'm hoping to stay under $250 for all 4 combined.

I'm aware there are different grades of Chromium I can get plated on, and different thicknesses I can get. I'm not sure what grade or thickness to go with or the difference in effect. I'm pretty sure that the more thick the better protection offered by the chrome (rust, staining, etc.).

I've also heard about getting them Nickel plated and that offering a comparable look for better economy, anybody know about this?

If I end up getting it done I'll def. post pictures and let you know all about it.

see, i'm not sure, but a couple of years ago, i wanted to chrome out the radiator on my hi-boy and was told that it was outlawed because of the caustic chemicals involved. they still do it, but the old miles of chrome look, which is what i wanted, isn't done anymore. i am sure that there are probably some shops that still do it out west, but in major markets it isn't. the nickel look is cool, but i don't think that is what you are looking for, not on rims. there are a couple of companies that re-do rims, do a quick search i know that there is one in atlanta, that might be able to tell you more. sorry that i wasn't as helpful. there is a paint called aluma-look, spray can, that gives a chrome-like appearance. rodders use it to do small parts, not sure how it would handle the heat of a rim though.

After doing some research I've found that youv'e hit it.

I called up a bunch of chrome-plating places in Georgia, and all of them told me that nobody will chrome rims in the Southeast.

I tried the dupli-color chrome and it came on with no shine, no reflection even with clear coat. I've decided to re-sand, re-prime, and re-finish in gunmetal with the flange in silver. I think this will look good on my black s60.

you are right, it will look seriously sinister. or, you can go anthracite with the flanges silver. will be slightly darker than the gunmetal. think porsche dark metallic grey, that is anthracite. cool color. post pics, now you've given me ideas for my R and for the impala.

ShadowVolvo01 appears to be very knowledgeable on wheels, located on Volvospeed. He describes a painting process so you can get the chrome look. If you want to pay someone, send him a pm so he can find a shop close to your location.