I can see your concept with the gear knob - I've been looking at the MOMO Heritage gear knob which is a similar style. Check it out as the MOMO has a leather top which (might) match your leather...
Maybe a longer leather gaiter, or (a brave pill and) cutting down the shaft would close the gap... In my humble opinion it is better than the standard one and might be better attached - mine is loose already.
Your new knob would look great with a wooden dash too.
The grip tape makes a huge difference in the wet!
