Thanks, Detlef - take your time!
I assume you refer to the 2 phra-o in your friend‘s pic? Yes, these hilts seem lacquered (as are Ian‘s pieces, too) while the 4 mit deng apparently are not lacquered.
Surface treatment of wood with resin is documented for Malay artisans (cp. Power of Wood) and looks similar to shellac. Also lacquer-like dragon blood is utilized even if more on pommel and scabbard rather than the gripping area.
While it certainly is a possibility, I‘m not yet convinced that such a treatment clearly indicates any Thai origin. Excluding later modifications, it could also hint to a more ceremonial use as opposed to working pieces.
Regards,
Kai
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