You will be happy to know that your R2 Repro has been manufactured with mirror polished stainless steel parts instead of nickel plated steel parts. You will never be subject to the high cost of re-plating them. Besides this high cost the trouble with plating is that once it gets scratched during normal use you will be looking at rusty lines and spots until you have it re-plated.
Stainless steel is easily cleaned. It actually thrives with frequent cleaning. After cleaning many prefer to use a good grade of car wax preferably one without abrasive grit like pure Carnauba wax or a quality product that contains Carnauba wax. This will help with finger prints from showing up so badly. Wax should not stay on for more than 12 months, remove and reapply.
For normal dirt the simplest, safest, and least costly method that will adequately do the job is always the best method. A soft cloth and clean warm water should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt and soils. But be careful the dirt does not embed itself in the cloth and cause scratching. A final rinse with clean water and a dry wipe will complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water stains.
Fingerprints and mild stains resulting from normal use are the most common surface contaminates. Fortunately, these usually affect only appearance and seldom have an effect on corrosion resistance. They are easy to remove by a variety of simple cleaning methods such as a glass cleaner or by gentle rubbing with a paste of soda ash (sodium carbonate) and water applied with a soft rag. Once again, this should be followed by a thorough warm water rinse.
Shop oils, which may carry grease, grit and metal chips, commonly produce surface soiling. Initially, soap or detergent and water may be tried or a combination of detergent and water plus a solvent.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners unless absolutely necessary. Many can scratch or dull the mirror bright shine of your stainless steel parts. When abrasives are needed, first experiment on an inconspicuous area. A soft abrasive, such as pumice, should be used. Many cleaners contain corrosive ingredients which require thorough post-clean rinsing with clean water; however, thorough rinsing is recommended for all cleaning procedures. Avoid carbon steel brushes or steel wool as they may leave particles embedded on the surface which can lead to RUSTING. Cleaning should always be followed by rinsing with clean warm water. When water contains mineral solids, which leave water spots, it is advisable to wipe the surface completely with dry towels.
Surface scratches, both light and deep can be repaired using sanding and buffing compounds. A Stainless Steel Polishing Kit like the one from Caswell Inc will do the trick. Cloth buffing wheels and 3 different compounds (black, green & white) are used with a power motor. Be careful if you have no experience in doing this.
Here are two very good "How To Do It Yourself" links:
(1) Repairing & Polishing Stainless Trim (by Mark Ehlen)
(2) Stainless Trim Repair (Hot Rod)