I've done some plating - worked well at the time but most of it has flaked off now. I can't remember if it was nickel plate or not, the kit I put together is in my garage if you want me to have a look.
I did all the nickel plating on this in the early 90's. Cleanliness is everything as is washing and degrading thoroughly between baths. Copper then the Nickel. Bought my gear from Chronos Ltd