[gary rabbitt]

Hi,
Just a note on painting the escutcheon. They were painted and not polished as you probably know. Many models used this same part.
I have found that Plasti-Kote makes a color that very closely matches the original. It's the small can of Odds 'n' Ends line. number 139S Brass. You should be able to find it at your local Lowes or big box importer, for around $2.50.

I'd strip off that black paint, I hope no one has sanded the metal, If they did, you will have to remove the sanding marks before painting. Paint usually doesn't do a good job on filling scratches in. You shouldn't need any primer either. Just make sure the part is very clean and all the old paint is out of the grooves.

Don't try to load it up with paint on the first coat. Light coats work best.
This Brass color is not mirror-like some "gold tone" paints. I think you will like it, and it is inexpensive.

You mentioned you did not power up because of having no speaker. Please don't power up even if an old set has a speaker unless you make a good inspection first, then use a "dim bulb" tester or variac.
There is a good bit of info here on Ron's site I recommend to those who are just starting out in the hobby.

http://www.philcoradio.com/tech/plugin.htm

Good luck on the restore