[sswee]

The base colors are not hard to do. The shading part is the catch. I have only gotten that look in wood staining. It has to be something in the dye consistency and/or technique being used.

There are three types of anodize on aluminum
Type I Chromic acid anodize. Usually used to protect the substrate as a primer under other coatings. It is not done by many due to the type of acid used. I have only read about it and have no first hand knowledge.
Type II Sulfuric acid anodize. Most widely done. Good dye qualities and protection a the substrate. Will not hold up to highly acidic or base chemicals.
Type III Hard anodize. Not dyed or limited colors due to pore size. Done at higher currents and low temperature.

I am not familiar with any clear coat that can handle that kind of heat. I don't see a benefit to the anodize if they have one but that is just my opinion.
SS