I can see where this can become a real can of worms. aside from the fancy "show chrome" like you vaunted Paramounts, I was taught that the chroming was to make the frame more resistant to corrsion (as noted) but was also told and maybe improperly that the electrochenical process also strengthened the steel.

I guess it is just a matter of who tought you about bikes, but I am certain someone will reference Sheldon's take on the subject soon.