I’m pretty sure TNT Amusements will hand paint touch ups on the playfield and then cover it with Mylar.

This depends on what you mean by clear vinyl. There are "playfield protector" style harder plastic covers that cover the entire playfield, which some people swear by but I haven't used. I have used vinyl cling in high wear areas, as well as "low tack" mylar (which peels off easily). Both do the job of protecting the surface from scratches but will not stop a dimple (which always happens when a steel ball smashes clear coat through vinyl or mylar).

Go to a sign shop and get some clear laminate. The stuff that they use on vinyl sign prints. I've used it over vinyl scans applied to playfields for art repairs. It's held up for years. And doesn't effect gameplay.

Similar to this, but industrial quality UV resistant and wide enough to cover an entire playfield.

I plan on using it over my next custom pins entire playfield.

Screenshot_20190928-171136 (resized).png

I just finished printing my Firepower playfield directly onto the back side of 2mm Polycarbonate. The results are pretty amazing! I prepped my playfield by sanding it completely smooth, then removed all the inserts, then I put the hardtop I printed right onto the wood.

The polycarbonate is as thick as an insert, so no need for them anymore. I had a thought afterwards to remove the star-rollovers and just use hall effect sensors below the surface, but I had already cut the holes. Mistakes are the best teacher. )

IMG_20200103_132128.jpg

IMG_20200103_132137.jpg

IMG_20200103_132141.jpg

I own a printing company and have access to all kinds of cool stuff. I mostly use mylar but in the past have used what we call noodle which is a repositioning/removable vinyl decal. Works great and you can remove it anytime you want.