Suggestions for a Finish for a Clock Face?

[Richard Amabile]

My son and I are making a clock out of a piece of mesquite (about 13" diameter/2" thick/with bark). We are trying to figure out the nicest and easiest way to finish the face of the clock. Right now we plan to sand the face flat; place on the numerals; then put on a finish before inserting the mechanism. Our initial thought is to use one of the pour on epoxy finishes that will self level. But, we are open to suggestions. Any specific approaches or product recommendations would be appreciated.

[David Hawxhurst]

your epoxy idea would work. some other ideas would be shellac (alone or top coated), varnish (something like waterlox or general's arm-r-seal), lacquer or just about any wood finish you like. if not using epoxy i would finish first then put the numbers and mechanism on.