How Silversmithing Shapes Our Chrome Restoration Work
- 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
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.
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.
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
Contact us today:
+44 121 212 0155