I've been wondering... not necessarily just for old radios...
after a lacquer refinish, is there anything in a more modern type of
finish coat that could be applied to the top, just generally make it
more resistant to abrasion, moisture, or whatever?
Or would the lacquer react with most modern products in a bad way?
Nelson

It is a choice for you to make. Many believe that lacquer is a more beautiful finish, as I do, especially on wood. Most will agree that when a scratch or other blemish happens with lacquer it is much easier to repair. I will admit that on the table next to my favorite chair the top is finished in polyurethane simply because I can set drinks on it without a worry. But, once poly it is a lot harder to refinish. But to answer your question: Poly will go over lacquer; for metal nothing beats the automobile paints. Just my opinion.

Tung oil is an alternative.
Have used it on furniture and a few consoles.
Water wont bugger it up and is easily refinished or cleaned up with a recoat.

Tim

Thanks for the responses, guys. I have to confess I cheated
a bit... this is as much for a table refinish as for radios. It just
seemed to me that the lacquer is much better for toning and
basic finish, but maybe something else over it would improve
the durability in special (putting drinks on top) cases.
Nelson

Nelson, I've got the same problem with my chairsides. I have finished them in lacquer, and am afraid to put glasses on them. My wife went and bought me coasters with a cork bottom.

Chris

My nightstand, an 1820 Sheraton walnut table that I made 15 years ago, is finished in lacquer. It receives splashes from wine, coffee, mixed drinks, etc. My pocket change and other debris land there, as well. When I clear it off and wipe it clean with a damp paper towel, it looks like the day I sprayed it!

WIne? Mixed drinks? On nightstand?
Party animal!

There isn't a problem with poly over lacquer because it won't be going into the wood. I've never been able to see any difference between poly-topped and bare lacquer, and I'd even say that the poly-top can be a little nicer.