Release the dogs of war... My comment is bound to stir up some responses for you, Bill.
I'm not that big of a fan when it comes to clear coat over color. Originally developed by the automotive manufacturers as a cheaper alternative to plain ol' paint, it has become something of a, "Gee, I gotta have me some clear coat" resto chant.
Yes, it does a fine job creating a deep look to the paint that sell cars. And it offers all sorts of environmental protection from tree sap and vented jet fuel and smog and on n' on.. It can also make a mediocre paint job look better.
I have some clear coat in my shop. It has its place and I've used it occasionally. However, my most recent motorcycle paint resto -the 1983 R65- was sprayed with an acrylic enamel with a gloss hardener additive. The BMW 501 blue is a metallic and the paint looks fantastic. No clear coat.
A 2-stage paint job will cost more simply because you'll be buying more product. The color goes on as a very thin matte finish and must be clear coated soon afterward. Timing is pretty important.
Remember, you can later shoot clear over an acrylic enamel if you choose to do so. Just use the same brand chemicals to insure proper bonding between the products. Always ask questions of your autobody supplier prior to laying out your cash.
