Rechroming classic car parts
I spent nearly £2000 having all my Gilbern Genie window frames and door trims rechromed in four batches by Castlechrome. Very happy with the work and prices and found them good to deal with. A small problem occured in last batch. A door trim had marks in the new chrome plating (where I assume it was held for polishing?). I had not seen this in any other parts done, including opposite door version of same piece. I called them, had a calm polite conversation, was asked to send it back to be redone "as they wanted me to be happy". Great customer service I thought. I sent the part back to them and they confirmed receipt when I called a few days later. I have not seen the part since. I called multiple times over six months to see if it was ready. They confirmed via email they had it and that it would be done. It never was. I eventually decided I just wanted the part back so I could get it redone elsewhere. When I called to arrange collection I was told "they could not put their hands on it" "..because so much time has now passed...".
(I pointed out that the time passed was caused by them, not me).
I emailed a few days later, hoping they had managed to find it, and also provided a sketch with dimensions for a replacement part to be made (it's basically a chrome plated brass u channel with slight modification). Castlechrome replied via email saying they could make the replacement part for me. That was over six months ago in December 2024. I have still not received my original part back or a replacement. When I emailed about progress with the replacement I got no reply.
I have since managed to source an original replacement part via my car club and got it rechromed by another company at my own additional cost.
That is my own honest experience with Castlechrome, regardless of any reply that may come. Very good initially, but turned bad after I was unhappy with one single piece and had already paid them nearly £2000. If they thought I was being too fussy they could have just returned the part to me with explanation. It is not good customer service to lose a rare classic car part and take no responsibility for making good.
All of the above took place from July 2024 to July 2025. I have dated experience as 25/3/25, which is my last email to Castlechrome (no reply).
I have no doubt about all the other positive reviews, which do reflect the service I initially had. However, this company is also capable of a very different type of customer service. I think I accidently pressed the wrong button...