Yep. Too many solutions require a tolerance for less than pretty results.
I keep a bottle of Corrosion X spray around. Treating my cabinet saw top with it, I could set a coke can on it and not worry about the condensation leaving rust within just a few minutes, as would happen without it.
I took my table top to a mirror surface using some of my worn granite polishing pads and mineral oil. I was way purty. However, I sprayed it with Corrosion X, making it safe from rust, but all the mirror like finish was gone immediately.
And, I think that paint over treatment thing is a must. It's a bit like straight hardening oil on wood. For durability, it needs the help.