[Doublej]

I have pine dresser procured from Caldor 30 years ago, so it's nothing special. The finish on the top surface seems to evaporated but on the drawer faces it's still fine.

Is this a simple way (e.g. without much sanding) to spruce up it's appearance?

I was thinking perhaps a coat or two of this?

https://www.amazon.com/Deft-Interior-Finish-Brushing-Lacquer/dp/B000RMO110

[JohnR]

I'm a long way from being an expert on wood finishing but I find oil finishes easier to use e.g.

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=tung+oil

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=danish+oil&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Adanish+oil

[Peter J]

Depending on what's already on it, lacquer may have an adverse effect. The solvents in it are pretty hot and will often make oil based topcoats wrinkle. Then you're  in for some work. I'd experiment first if you go that route. Brushing lacquer is lacquer with retarder in it, still takes some skill to get it on with brush and have it flow out.

If you're looking to refresh an existing finish, something like this may be better

https://www.amazon.com/Formbys-30013-Furniture-Refinisher-32-Ounce/dp/B0014JGFYG

https://www.amazon.com/Howard-RF1008-Restor-A-Finish-8-Ounce-Neutral/dp/B003DNRH1Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1488171750&sr=8-2&keywords=restor-a+finish

[kbuzz3]

im no expert...and im highly un skilled...but when howards products work, like restore a finish..its been pretty amazing.....worth a fee buks on an inconspicuous area before drastic measures.

[Rusty Jefferson]

Since you only need to do the top, start by cleaning it with a damp cloth and water.  Then, wipe it with a cloth dampened with denatured alcohol to help remove any wax. Then, lightly sand the top with some 220 grit paper while holding a vacuum hose with a brush on the end, close. Rewipe the top with a clean cloth and the denatured alcohol again to remove the dust. Apply a coat of this https://www.jamestowndistributors.com/mobileportal/show_product.do?pid=4122  reduced 15%, with a foam 3" brush. Flow the coat on evenly and then leave it alone.  It's very forgiving and will adhere to a lacquer, or urethane finish if sanded. Most commercial furniture that age are one or the other. It will take a couple days to dry enough to put into service.