[DGulliver]

In my experience, I wouldn't say that the modern chrome is better - not by a long shot!

I believe the difference is in the finish/smoothness of the plating. While the factory bumpers are obviously smooth, the chrome is not "mirror smooth" - there is a small amount of "orange peel", for lack of a better term. It's actually a smaller imperfection than what we call paint type orange peel, but a little rougher than the repros, which have a mirror finish. Maybe it's due to one of the plating layers being thicker? The repops are also considerably thinner metal than the originals I have (and are lighter of course).

The repros I have require regular waxing/polishing to preserve the finish, where the originals can go years with just regular washing. Surface rust will form quickly on the repros if there's not some kind of protective polish on them-even ones kept inside. Just my experience..