Buff.
I have been using Turtle brand liquid "Ice Wax" for the last few years and have been very happy with this synth wax. I would imagine that other high quality auto waxes would perform as well. Easy application as well. Wipe on, wait a min or 2, wipe off and buff, done.
An interesting historical quote...
"Farlow has recently introduced a "band" for the purpose. Each lap adheres to the wood, and, in finishing off, the upper lap rigidly sticks to the one placed beneath it, and remains so. By the employment of this "band" the rod can be put up in three minutes and keep firm for the whole season. It is the neatest form of "whipping" as yet introduced."
George M Kelson - disscussing the new tape for putting up splice joint rods, from "The Salmon Fly"
I can see how fisherman would have been excited about this development!
Cheers.
J