The problem you will have is that the exposed paint will be dirty. Unless you get it really clean, the lacquer won't stick. And, it's clear that the exposed paint is not suitable for getting lacquer to stick, as it hasn't stuck before. So you will probably need to sand down to get a key, which will expose the metallic particles and alter the finish.
Maybe a good clean and de-grease and a coat of lacquer is all you can achieve, in situ. But expect to have to do it again in a year.