Your wet lubricant is not continuous. Periodic separation exposes metal surfaces to dry rub. Did we mention abrasion and extreme pressure? Are you thinking of hydrophobic coatings for lower friction? Better not finalize your product design just yet.

Because, here, the answer is the hydrophilic ("attracting") surface. You must encourage wetting, not repel. Ideally, the film should be continuous. But not spread too thin, either, so as to render lubrication ineffective. How is this accomplished? Is polishing the answer?

Actually, the exact opposite is true. Assuming mechanical properties are met, your coating should be optimized for surface roughness, porosity, or micro-cracking. By encouraging the capillary effect, spreading of your wet lubricant across contacting surfaces, wear can be reduced, significantly. Adsorption of your lubricating additive is critical in the hydrodynamic condition.