Howdy, I won't argue that "the wet look" can be inappropriate for the classic bikes that we are fond of. However, I've had the Esteemed Brian Baylis apply a light clear coat to my '74 Raleigh International, and I couldn't be happier with the results! It looks like it's been freshly waxed, but that's all. Plus, I can ride it without worrying about the delicate decals (and I've damaged decals on other Raleighs of that period).
For bikes that are too nice to ride, this is a good option. For my other classic bikes, they are treated with touch-up paint, a good cleaning, and some wax.... and then subjected to dust, small rocks, sweat, and all the other indiginities that come from use.
Steve Kurt Peoria, IL (and you should see what my commuting bike looks like! Wonderful lugs, but lots of dirt and gunk)
From: <wheelman@nac.net>
>
> I do not claim to be an expert here but when I see a good old classic
> or antique bicycle that has the imron wet look it drives me crazy. I
> understand that a restoration may leave you no choice but to clear
> coat with imron makes me shiver. My preference (not that it means
> anything) is to take a salvageable finish and clean, wax and polish
> it till my wrist hurts and continue to maintain it. Time will claim
> everything sooner or later but I can't imagine museums puting imron
> on everything they wanted to protect. Imagine the Mona Lisa with an
> imron clear coat, <<<there goes that shiver again.>>>