Gerry Bay asked how to fix water spots on a cylinder box.  I've had
good luck removing water spots from most finishes by simply exposing
the box to sunlight.  If the water has clouded the finish by absorption
it will be eliminated and the finish will be restored.  On the other
hand if the water had removed the finish the sunlight will do no harm.
A light coat of very dilute (with alcohol) shellac will restore the
finish to it's spotless condition.

Two points of caution are in order here.  The sunlight generates heat
which can warp and lift veneer.  Also, if the original finish is unique
or very old, sunlight will not work and shellac may not work.

Bill Finch