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How Silversmithing Shapes Our Chrome Restoration Work

  • Writer: Joe Vella
    Joe Vella
  • Jul 28
  • 2 min read

The unexpected connection behind concours-quality finishes


At Concours Plating, we’re known for delivering flawless metal finishing — chrome, nickel, and gold — for vintage vehicles, classic motorcycles, and concours show cars.

But what many clients don’t realise is that our edge in the industry comes from something unusual: Silversmithing.


Working alongside our sister company, Genius of the Lamp, we apply centuries-old metalworking techniques to achieve modern restoration excellence.


Why Silversmithing Matters in Chrome Work


Silversmithing isn’t just about jewellery and fine silver. It teaches:


  • Precision in shaping metal

  • Surface discipline before finishing

  • Respect for original craftsmanship


These principles directly transfer to automotive restoration, especially for delicate, curved, or damaged components like:


  • Headlamp bezels

  • Bumper corners

  • Trim pieces

  • Badges and plaques


    Vitreous Enamel Badge
    Aston Martin Badge in Vitreous Enamel

Every restoration at Concours Plating benefits from these artisan-level processes.


Real Example: From Hand-Fabricated Lamps to Classic Bumpers


In the same workshop where we hand-chase a brass lamp body for Genius of the Lamp, we

might also be:


  • Silver-soldering a cracked fog light bezel

  • Carefully flattening a warped vintage badge

  • Rebuilding a broken chrome grille using traditional forming methods


That’s what sets us apart. Most plating shops polish. We repair, restore, and replicate using metalworking techniques from a silversmith’s bench — all before the part even reaches the plating tank.


hammering brass sheet to shape
Shaping Brass Sheet the Traditional Way

Shared Resources, Better Results


Concours Plating and Genius of the Lamp operate under the same roof. That means:


  • One team of skilled craftspeople

  • Shared tools and finishing equipment

  • Faster workflows and tighter quality control

  • No outsourcing or subcontracting — ever


We believe restoration is more than just making things shiny. It's about preserving the integrity of the original part — and often, that takes a craftsman's touch.


Why It Matters to Collectors & Builders


  • Concours accuracy — Fine work on trim and detailing wins points in shows

  • Longer-lasting repairs — Silver-soldered joins beat modern filler or glue

  • Period-correct finishes — Achieved through traditional polishing and prep


Whether it’s a Lucas headlamp, a Jaguar badge, or a 1940s bumper, our hybrid approach ensures every component is restored to its rightful standard.


hand made generator for vintage cars
Made by Genius of the Lamp and finished by Concours Plating in Birmingham UK

Based in Birmingham | Trusted Worldwide


From our Jewellery Quarter workshop, we serve clients across the UK and internationally — delivering chrome, nickel, and gold finishes that reflect both craftsmanship and care.


Get a quote | All work done in-house | concoursplating.co.uk


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