Chrome plated for most of todays guitars 

The patented modification is a reimagining of the classic tailpiece fitted to Les Paul style Tune-O-Matic type bridges.

With original tailpieces there is a compromise, whichever way they are fitted. A lot of players prefer to bolt it down to the body but this causes a harsh string angle with excess pressure applied to the bridge, string breakage at the saddles are more likely. 
Occasionally, players will employ a technique known as 'Top Wrapping' where the strings are passed backwards through the holes and over the top to the bridge. This can be effective in decreasing the break angle and it even allows the it to be lowered to the body. However, it also ends up with damage to the top of the tailpiece and the twisted ends of the strings are exposed which can feel quite uncomfortable and the look can be off putting for many.
The Lightning Guitars Tailpiece has all the benefits of top wrapping without the damage or aesthetic issues. It can be positioned as low as it can go, your usual gauge strings will feel lighter and easier to play and are a lot less likely to break and moving up to a heavier gauge string set will feel about a gauge lighter.