It's not easy getting a mirror polish.

I've been doing progressions of
600, 800, 1000, 1500, 2000 wet dry
meguiars 85 cutting compound
meguiar fine-cut cleaner

Each time it's a little shinier but still looking a little murky.

When I look at the metal closely I see fine scratches and what looks like water stains (cloudy spots).

I'm pretty sure it's shinier than it was new but I'm wondering If I'm missing a step or if I just have to keep going.

How much elbow grease does a mirror polish take or am I simply missing steps in my progression?

Thanks,
Bob