Dechroming

"Al Banome, of Richmond Hill, owned many hot cars during the late '50s and '60s. This teal blue '55 was parked in front of my parents' house when I shot the only photo I have of it in August 1964. The body was extensively modified but still being worked on at this time. Note the dechroming, extended rear fenders with new tail lights, split rear bumper, and radiused rear wheel openings. Under the hood was a late model Buick engine." Photo from The Ken Bausert Photo Collection.

Dechroming is the process of removing factory chrome trim, emblems, handles, and other brightwork to achieve a cleaner, more streamlined look. This technique became popular with early customizers in the 1940s and 1950s who wanted to smooth out body lines and eliminate visual clutter. Dechroming was often paired with nosing, decking, and shaving to create a sleek, understated appearance that emphasized the car’s shape over its factory flash. In some cases, remaining chrome elements—like bumpers or grilles—were painted or body-colored to complete the look. Dechroming remains a hallmark of traditional custom styling.

Dechromed Custom Cars

Al Banome's 1955 Chevrolet