[Sci-Fi]

If this was a detailer's forum, your post would be looked upon with great suspicion since many detailers use a variety of products from different manufacturers.

In general, it all comes down to price and performance value that determines what somebody would use, buy, or stock. That being said, it is hard to beat the wide range of supplies offered by Meguiar's. 3M and Eagle One also carries many excellent products, as well as Auto Magic, Automotive International, etc., etc. Mother's is often underrated but for the money, it's hard to beat and an excellent performer. So paying a higher price doesn't necessary guarentee a better look or better performance/longevity. Besides how a car looks is very subjective, some prefer more reflection while others prefer a deep wet look. Does one company have or offer all excellent products throughout their product line? Like Gary said...no

There are many products that only the perfectionist would buy or try in the search for the perfect finish. But that is an on going and seemingly endless journey. If you are detailing a historic, custom, or show car, then yes, you would spend the entire day or even a week on it making sure every possible area is as perfect as possible (no shortcuts or skipping any polishing steps there). I remember doing a 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 where the paint on the entire car was measured with a paint thickness guage and any thin areas mapped out before any polishing even started. Then we had one guy holding a temp meter while we polished the car out to prevent any possible overheating of the paint in any one area. Is it necessary for the typical detail? No, but you can see how far one can go or how anal the process can become when taken to the extremes. A good detailer may use a paint thickness guage/meter to spot check various areas of the car and/or a magnifier to inspect the depth of any swirls or scratches. Most detailers would know from experience by just looking at your paint.

Any detailer will tell you that paint prep is 95% of the key to a great shine. The products used during that prep process and how many steps used may vary by the detailer depending on the condition of the paint and how much the customer is willing to pay and which products the detailer is most familar working with (everybody has their favorites for a particular job or paint condition). What you choose to protect that shine is a personal decision. There is no right or wrong choice. Any wax or sealant is a sacrificial layer that needs to be reapplied periodically to maintain protection.

Sorry for the long post