Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - Solid Oak Desk Refinishing

I have a really large solid oak desk that I am wanting to refinish. outside of some dust and minor dinks it is a very nice desk. I have it stripped already, but I have never refinished anything before. Are there certain routes to go down as far as the finish, color, texture, protection. What about time and coats? Should I Take it apart at all? ANY info would be very helpful. thank you

If it is truly 'solid', it has to be old. If noting is falling apart, I would not try to take it apart. As for stain, that is a personal choice, some like it some don't. Something like Golden Oak will enhance the grain without changing the color of the wood a lot. Natural finishes don't enhance the grain much. I prefer polyurethane, in any sheen you prefer, satin is almost flat, semi-gloss is just that, gloss is like glass given enough coats. I would apply at least 3 coats, sand lightly between coats to remove brush marks and dust. A Scotchbrite pad is better than sandpaper, easier on the finish.