The 1936 ekco has only had 2 caps replaced by me, all other bits look original, I did align the if strip but I couldnt improve it, truely an amazing old radio, thye must be best quality components.
I have a 1942 hmv table top that the owner had used every day from new till 2011 when they unfortunately croaked, it has never needed repair.
Also I've a weimar from the late 60s, I gave up testing when I got about 1/3 of the way through, everything seems to have failed, even the if transfo's are open.
That happens. The quality ones were HIGH quality. The mid grades were built with components that might last a few years. Kind of like Kleenex. Use it for a while, then get a new one out. The new one may be higher tech and have the same functionality, but a handkerchief works for a LONG time. (properly cared for, of course)
During the early years of radio, the manufacturers were trying to decide which way to go. Fortunately, some went for quality and long life. Everything under-stressed and made with the best parts available. Some manufacturers decided to go the other way.
I've found out that, most of the time, you can get a good idea of the manufacturer's intent from the case. Polished solid hardwood is a good sign. Veneer and pressed fiberboard is a bad sign.
Then open it up. If the guts in a real wood case look like the original installation, and don't have any signs of sloppy, but well intentioned modifications, the radio will probably require minimal repairs to have it operating correctly.
There is the tube issue, but many people, including me, are working on replacing tubes with modern components that are readily available. Most audiophiles say they can tell the difference between a matched pair of 12AX7s and a semi-conductor replacement, but 12AX7s aren't made any more.
It is not a good thing to have a favorite radio become unusable due to a worldwide shortage of tubes. I guess no one ever thought this type of dinosaur would still be in use now.