We normally only put metal (nickel silver) winding checks on larger sized rods. The extra metal takes away from the lines and simplicity of a smaller rod and adds visual bulk. On rods greater than 7 1/2' and bigger than 4 weights, we would probably use these. These are turned from nickel silver bar stock metal on our own metal lathes. (The photo on the left shows a blued winding check, they come standard in brilliant nickel silver unless blueing is requested)

Also note the strap and ring hook-keeper at left. We do not normally put hook keepers on smaller rods (remember the bulk makes too much yang to the yin). We cut the strap out of nickel silver sheeting (the strap in this photo was blued). The ring is a rope twisted sterling silver band (which cannot be blued).

We delicately shape the cork all the way down to the blank and then wrap the silk up onto the grip. This makes for a wonderful transition onto a superfine grip. The thread winding check seems to make the metaphysical feel of the rod transition from the blank, to the grip and then to your hand in one fluid line.