I think we get that, My guess is that WF was just talking about the time it takes to polish the lugs alone, they being smaller than tubes. The stainless tubing I have bought didn't look half bad as I bought it, since there isn't any need to leave a crudy surface for protection against rust.
Desperado cycles has some pics of a bike filleted with 45% silver in stainless. But his methods are not typical, so you are venturing out on your own.