The general rule is to clear the trim for preservation. After experimenting with seven different types of clear, spray and brush, lacquer, acrylic, urethane, satin, flat and semi-gloss finish; I was unsatisfied with the results. The finish just seemed meh to me at best. The grain details seem to get lost and some paints added a milky patina The pieces tended to look plastic rather than metal. Application wise, there was zero tolerance for error resulting in time consuming do overs.
Frustrated, I decided to try something else. So I experimented with automative waxes and polishes. Both proved to be too aggressive, polishing away the grain just put in and turning the color to something like lead or pewter. After some research, I came across a preservative wax used by museums to preserve metals and even canvas art from deterioration. The wax is marketed by the name of Renaissance wax. So I tried it and was quite impressed. It is neutral in that it doesn’t change the color or obscure the grain and doesn’t contain abradants. Some technique is needed in getting an even finish, as you can get some minor discolorations. It does not protect against scratches, of course, but will otherwise protect from finger prints, etc. I couldn’t be happier with the result as the trim truly looks like brushed aluminum, with a beautiful and natural satin sheen. Pics enclosed, but they really don’t do it justice.
Acrylic paint, except front ash tray lid is lacquer.
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B6 Nogaro 
with lots of mods 
B8 Nogaro Avant 
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