I have read much in the MMD Archives about piano finishes: varnish,
shellac, French polish, lacquer, and synthetic finishes.  There appear
to be a diverse number of opinions as well as a lot of (sometimes
conflicting) information.

I have a nice 1927 Baldwin Welte grand.  Overall, the case is in very
nice condition.  The music rack and the lid are checked (alligatored),
however, and do not live up to the rest of the piano.

I would like to try a minimally-invasive improvement to these pieces.
Some sort of restoration of the original finish that has the potential
to closely match the sheen and color of the rest of the piano would
seem the best course of action.  I would like to find out if anyone
out there has had the same dilemma with a satisfactory resolution.

Years ago, a friend of mine used a product on the top of his upright
called "Kniteen" which was advertised as a "finish amalgamator".  As
I remember, he brushed it on, and after many brushing and drying
cycles, the original finish leveled and looked wonderful.

Was this a youthful fantasy, or are such miracle products really out
there?

Bruce Duncan
Rockville, Maryland