chrome plating has gotten seriously nuts in last 5 years due to government regulations in the industry.
Price is always about the quality of the item to begin with , that you are handing too them . Less prep less price, more prep more price, that simple.
I think if you look it up your rad shell was originally nickel plated ? I would make a post on the VCCA CHAT 1929--32 section, they have lots of experts willing to answer you.
mike lynch