If they`re supposed to be Nickel, then that`s what they should stay. If it`s for a players kit then that`s on you.

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The usual method is copper nickel chrome show chrome just buffed more

Real nice vintage nickel hardware can be hard to find these days. I'd say put that hardware away and round up some more common nice chrome hardware to replace it with. Might even find someone that will do a swap with you.

I'd agree with Mike. I'd actually be surprised if putting on new or used chrome hardware wasn't cheaper than having your nickel hardware chromed. Plating isn't cheap.

As mentioned above all chromed parts are actually nickel plated too. The nickel is the reflective silver surface you see but the very thin semi translucent outer layer of chrome plating prevents the nickel from tarnishing and shifts the overall hue towards blue.

As far as collectors go I don't know how any would know if you swapped out the nickel parts for the proper ones in chrome. No way anyone can know how the drum was built originally. They might notice recently re-chromed parts though as the required polishing process prior to plating tends to round off the detailing of the parts.

I feel the drum would no longer be 100% original (not including heads in the 100%) if you chromed the hardware. Although the drum could be originally bought with chromed hardware, yours was not and chroming the hardware, although period correct, is a cosmetic modification that can't be reversed.

Also, swapping out the hardware for chrome because "how can anyone know" is just dishonest unless disclosed.

Can you find some nice original hardware that is chromed and then give the buyer the option of keeping the drum all original with the nickel hardware or having it swapped out for periodic correct chrome hardware? Seems like you could make sure you are hitting the targeted buyers of both those who want it original or not at all and those who have to have it Ringo or nothing at all?

Forgot to add this comment.

The drum hardware being chromed wouldn't necessarily keep me from being interested if I was looking. I would just want and expect to know of any modifications if laying down some serious coin and would expect that from an upmarket seller to discerning customers of which I believe you to be of both.

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Chris that’s the best point yet , hardware is removed and replaced constantly , I agree no foul here, and nickel is my all time fave and I spend some time polishing it shows very well...

Gary