black nickel

[Nomos]

I searched, came up dry. (actually, there was a thread from 2006 about chroming a graflex, but it's not quite the same thing I'm asking about.)

I LOVE the dark nickel plating found on some saxophones, especially Cleto's from Jimmy Kimmel Live. I don't want to electroplate that onto an MHS hilt for two reasons 1)I'm not sure it would work on aluminum, and 2) I think it would be price restrictive to get 4 or 5 small parts plated.

Does anyone with more creativity/skill than me have any ideas on how to achieve a similar look? I think I might be able to airbrush on a Testor's color from my model paints, and then add a few layers of a high-gloss clear coat. I wouldn't be using this particular saber to duel, so durability isn't an issue above and beyond dust and the occasional handling. I don't have any scrap aluminum to test this on, so I'm kind of hoping I can bum the information/knowledge from some of you fine folks.

[Crystal Chambers]

With my limited experience in enamel clear coating, I think it may be more durable then you think. Especially if you bake it. An even better idea would be if you could get the clear spray tinted. IMO

[FenderBender]

Black Chrome or other trans-black powdercoating would probably get you close to what you want.