Not sure I quite understand your standard zero method. I just zero gauge once before I start. Measure bolts loose, torque both bolts and remeasure for stretch. Go to next rod.
I think the main idea is to have a repeatable 'reference point' (that being the fabricated standard) that you can always go back to. This takes out the +/- that might be introduced by the gauge/fixture as you are actively measuring the rod bolts. Basically, think of the inner workings of the gauge, or the potential movement of the components. So while resetting the gauge to 0 (zero) each time works for actual measurements, it does not provide you with the SAME starting point for EACH bolt...whereas the standard would, and it would remain that same for the remainder of time you needed to reference it (at least that's my interpretation of the procedure dvw uses.
