i got my rod turner for about 50 bucks

for the time and effort it saved me, it was very much worth it.
in the overall cost of building rods, another 50 bucks is just a drop in the bucket.

it can be done without it, but like mentioned, requires a good bit of time dedicated and turning the rod every so often based on the finish used.

the turner really helps for me b/c I can come in, load the rod, apply the finish and forget about it for a few hours. Go wrap another rod, or turn some cork, get somethign to eat, or go to sleep, and not have to worry about it.