Looks absolutely brilliant, but am I missing something?  Why wouldn't you patch before applying clear?

Sorry if I'm a Dubbo - and sorry to anyone in Dubbo

Not sure what you mean by patch?  If its repairing the wear spots then its on purpose!

The theory is - to seal the playfield with clear to protect whats there and to build up the level (as I had removed and redone inserts).  Its at the stage now where I'll begin paint touch ups then clear again.  I guess I can safely mask and tape up sections without fear of lifting more paint.