I dunno, Duffy, but I imagine the gold plating on these guitars (Gibby and Fender included, too) is very thin, and bound to wear off with any rubbing at all.
That's one of the things that I like about LP Customs... I think the worn gold just looks way cool on a gracefully aged instrument. Most probably wouldn't think so, though.
If you're into keeping the guitar pristine for as long as possible, I'd just go for the chrome or nickel look. The AL3000 with chrome and abalone inlays looks killer! I've been drooling over the wide neck version ever since they came out.
Revolving door GAS is a b*tch!
Guitars:
Fender 2006 MIM Fender Stratocaster HSS in 3TS
Ibanez RG 570 with a bridge Invader
ESP M II Deluxe with a Tune-o-Matic bridge
Eleanor, the magical, mystical Road Worn wonder Tele
Blackstar HT Club 40