If you use a rotary buffer and you don't do it properly, you will create more problems than what you started with. However, trying to polish swirled paint by hand is an exercise in frustration. Personally, I like to use a random orbital as it's pretty much a no brainer.
Detailing process:
1. Wash car
2. Clay car (This will necessitate another washing or rinse depending upon technique) Hand clay only. This is for removing impurities.
3. Polish car (Use the least aggressive polish possible to get the result you want as this step removes paint...)
4. Wax car or apply first finishing coat of acrylic sealant
5. Apply additional layers of sealant or wax.
I prefer sealant to wax as it last longer, but nothing can beat the depth of a GOOD carnuba wax for concours type competition. I prefer racetrack competition, so to each their own.
When I got my car I spent a whole weekend doing this process. It looks great, but takes TIME. If you have more money than time, I'd recommend a professional. They can do it a lot faster, and a good one will do it better.
HTH
