I believe it was zinc plated so I asked to have them zinc plated also. But the material (zinc) that is applied is thin and you will be able to see the imperfection underneath.
Maybe preparing the surface is the answer.
Zinc plating down here is hot dip..........................it goes on REALLY thick. It has an uneven looking finish with very dull and very bright "Patches". The patches look like leaves on the ground..........brightest ones on top?
Mottled! thats the look!
Are you thinking Cadmium?
Cadmium can be either silver or gold and thin, usually used for fasteners and brackets etc. Cadmium stays "Bright" until all gone.
I can just spray with a can of zinc rich paint.............looks a uniform grey from get go. I do not think that a spray can of that was available back then aye.
I believe the SDs were a zinc dip finish, not unlike the dull finish on old galvanised roof sheets. Quite a rough finish I suspect. Galvanised steel electrical conduit would also be a a similar comparison. I've only seen one where the finish had partially survived, quite similar to CI's picture.
I think Keith's looks pretty good, my SD has a chrome leg!
In my occasion I also believe that it is done with the method of electroplating. I know the hot dip method and that it creates flakes. Mine doesn't appear flakes, it's like the galvanized wrenches.
