In general finishes are subjective and dependent on the end use of the piece you are finishing.
Phenol based products will typically dry with an amber shading to your wood. However, the finish is hard and really resistant. Bowling alleys used this for decades. Waterlox is one example of this kind of finish.
Urethane based finishes are another great finish, Arm-r-seal from General finish is an example of this. It also will shade the wood a bit toward the amber shading.
Both of these above will typically take 2-3 days to complete the finishing process (3 coats) due to the slow dry-time. Both above can be wiped on or brushed or sprayed
Lacquer based finishes (like what Phil referenced) are one of my go to when I need it done in one day. It does require spraying if you want a great surface finish.
All the above are what I normally use as I only use solvent based. Mostly because, it is what I am used to and understand how to "read it" when it goes on.
Other finishes I use quite a bit are Mineral or Walnut or Linseed oil/beeswax/carnuba wax mix- you can make this yourself easily. This is a great food grade finish and just a great finish for stabilizing a piece. Rub on and rub off, done. The last 2 will dry Mineral oil will never dry (polymerize). That can be an advantage for some conditions (e.g. butcher blocks, etc.).
Shellac- also a good finish, however, this is light sensitive and heat sensitive. But, very useful for sealing all sorts of things. I love finishing with it. My TV table/stand is finished with it. It is 7 years old and still looking good.
One other new finish, I have not used, but have seen the finished product is Vesting Oil Finish. It is a UV reactive finish. Rub on then use an ultra violet light on it and it is dry in seconds........ TOTALLY INTERESTED in this....... BUT ......... 160 bucks a quart plus the cost of the light
...... gonna wait on that one.......