Kromex

Dec 5, 2014 | by Becky Oeltjenbruns

Love it!

Kromex tray

Chrome is one of my favorite vintage materials. Something about that shine and reflective surface just makes me feel happy (and ready to redecorate). The plating of chromium channeled the atomic age and was a go-to material for all sorts of mid-century products: serving dishes, furniture, keepsakes, cars, and more. Kromex is one such product line that is dear to my heart and this platter is a cherished piece of my collection.

All about Kromex

Kromex was originally manufactured by the Alcoa Aluminum Company is the mid-1950s. During this era, their product offerings were available at popular retailers like Montgomery Ward’s and Sears. Recognized for their clean lines and space-age feel, Kromex products are still enjoyed to this day due to their durable nature and charm.

Made in the USA

Kromex logo

As much as Kromex is amazing, it was only produced for a short while as companies shifted focus to the industrial realm. So for us, Kromex remains a magical moment in history when Chrome was King. In good news, the metallic pieces you collect are just as easy to clean as they are to enjoy.

How to clean chrome-plated treasures

The biggest item to remember with your cleaning routine is texture. Chrome can scratch easily, so be sure to select a very soft and clean cloth. To clean it up, just wipe it down gently with your bit of fabric.

Best dumpster find - ever!

Chrome plated wonderment in chair form

Want to shine it back up? Grab another carefully selected cloth and polish away with a bit of elbow grease. A piece of gross residue stopping your shine? Don’t panic! Remove that sticky goo by just washing it with a bit of dish soap and warm water. If you need alternative methods, check these tips out.

Cause A Frockus would like to thank Georgia Kemp Caraway, author of “Tips, Tools, & Techniques to care for antiques, collectibles, and other treasures”, and WikiHow.

For our readers: What’s your favorite thing to collect – if you had to choose – chrome or wood?

Replies for “Kromex”

  • tootall1121

    WD 40 will get rid of grease, sticky glue residue, and many other things. If you want to remove the WD, Dawn and water on a soft cloth will do the trick. I like Simichrome metal polish for a high shine, there are others tho. Use very sparingly. then wipe with a soft cloth after polishing. For tips on shining other materials, you may contact me at tootall1121@yahoo.com

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    • Becky Oeltjenbruns Post author

      Hi!
      That’s a great question and one I haven’t been able to find much information on. If I find out some further details I’ll make a follow up post! More to come (hopefully soon!)…
      Cheers,
      Becky

      Reply ↓
  • Diana Wilson

    i have “an original by kromex” kopperex lazy susan and can find NO info on the manufactured date. It has a “copper” lazy susan plate and cover for the center circle bowl. do you know how long they made these and/or when?

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  • Felicia

    I have a Vogue by Kromex carousel server thats never been used and still has the original assembly instructions in the original box but am unable to find any value information anywhere. Where can I get this information?

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  • Juetta Dilworth

    Hello, I’m 83 years old and I got my Kromex kitchen canister set in 1953 FREE with my S&H Green Stamps, In Maryland. I still have them, not a scratch or mark on them and they look just as shiny and beautiful as the day when I got them them. They have been used daily all those years. I have moved seven times during 1953-2017 in 4 states. Those four Kromex canisters and a Heavy Metal adjustable Procter Ironing Board are the only two things that I have left from that original date. Everything else in my homes have been replaced several times. The ironing board is still used on the occasions that I need it and it does look its age but the Kromex looks like it has just been purchased. I am still proud to have it shine on display on my new Quartz countertops. Am I bragging, you bet!

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  • Rose white

    I have a Kromex (?) round serving tray with a scalloped edge that has cut outs around it. I received it as a wedding gift. I think I received a bread tray to match, but I stupidly sold it at a garage sale. How can I replace the bread tray?

    Reply ↓
    • Becky Oeltjenbruns Post author

      Hi Rose – that’s a great question! I would reach out to local vintage shop owners – specifically at antique malls (gives you more brains to pick at one spot!).

      Best of luck!
      Becky

      Reply ↓
  • Christine

    We just found one of these trays at our local thrift shop. It reminded me of Googie design, so I did some searching and discovered Kromex. The thing is, while this piece looks just like the single tier Kromex trays I’ve found online, the bottom says Japan, which I assume to mean it’s a knock-off. Anyone know anything about this?

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  • Michael Morrissey

    We have a Kromex lazy susan that we’ve used for 46 years. We got it for a wedding present. On our last move one of the four dishes around the center bowl that has a lid got broken. We would love to find another to replace it. Any ideas??

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  • Tammi Dietzel

    I found Remembrance a 10 1/2 in. Relish server #8344-21 made by Kromex in a box open all there tray in plastic but I cannot find any information

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  • Misty wineland

    I’ve found a Kromex Built Ford Tough ice bucket with wooden handle. Is there any interest in something like this?

    Reply ↓
    • Becky Oeltjenbruns Post author

      Hi Misty!
      Thanks for reaching out – sounds like a fun find! Collectors find interest in a range of Kromex items, with mid-century items being most popular at the moment. I would recommend finding comparables on Etsy/Ebay to gage market interest. Enjoy!

      Reply ↓
  • Tammy

    If anyone is interested in selling their Kromex canister sets or spice sets with pink lids or blue turquoise lids please please please give them my info I need to finish a collection.

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  • Kari Streit

    Hi! I have been looking for a bun warmer/serving oven as my family uses these to serve Danish Aebelskivers for a traditional Christmas meal every year. I found one yesterday that says “Kromex Enduringly Beautiful Pat. Pend.” on the underside. I would love to know more about this one. Not much online about these. I’m guessing it must be a really early one since it says the patent is pending. I’d appreciate any information you could share especially what year it was made. Thanks!

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  • Randy

    I stumbled upon this site only because my mom was going to donate one of her Kromex items to a charity organization. Up until today, I had never even heard of the “Kromex Company”, although I grew up seeing several of these items being used in our home (whenever our parents entertained family and friends). My mom (now a very young 88-year-old) still uses several of her Kromex pieces, but no longer has the need for the 7-piece Lazy Susan sectional serving tray. When I saw it, there was no way I’d let her donate it — except to me! I will gladly use it — what a cool piece it is! Interestingly, I cannot find one identical to it on ebay, Etsy, etc. There are some that look similar, but don’t have the “atomic” handle on the center dish cover that this does. Makes it even more unique. It appears these items last forever — this looks to be in brand new mint condition! I’m glad I can still be putting it to use, and that others can admire the craftsmanship and style. Thanks for letting me share on your blog.

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  • Stephen Rybka

    Hello all, I worked for Kromex main office in Cleveland Ohio until it closed 1983. At the time, it was owned by American Trading and Production out of Baltimore. Great company and employees. It was the start of the import era and the company refused to buy material from out of the country. I too have some old Kromex items and I cherish the memories behind them.Made in the USA and proud of it way back then. Hope that helps.

    Reply ↓

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