Chrome is only a reflection of the underlying surface. This needs to be polished smooth before any plating can be undertaken. New metals and thicker old metals are not normally a problem but if the metal is corroded and thin, the polishing cannot remove all the blemishes so some pitting can remain.

Aluminium and Stainless steel polish well. The appearance is as shiny as chrome but both are a slightly different shade. I tend to leave the polished surface bare as most clear coatings require a 'key' before application, which obviously ruins the shine. As yet, I have been unable to find a lacquer I can trust to stay adhered without 'keying'.