Access model without using get(id)

Is there a way to return a model without using get(id) ?

I am using this with the grid, and using a template for the column.  In the template, I use reference the Id to get the model. 

However, when creating a new row with the grid, there is no "Id" set so I need to find another way to access the model.

I can manually access the underlaying data with the "after" code.

But I want to to return the model so I can use .set() -- so that the 'modified' field is toggled -- so that the "save" toolbar button with run the update method.

Before:

After:


The after version sets the data, but it does not update the modified flag -- so when I click the "save" button the grid toolbar, it does not run the update method.