The new tube arrived yesterday, and looks like a beauty. A Sylvania "AA" grade, all new "Chromatrix" tube. Completely cataract-free, and with a date code of "2013" which I am guessing is a code of some kind, not a 3 year old tube. Box looks a good deal older than that.
Even got the warranty registration card (should send it in for a laugh!)
Thanks to Steve at the ETF, and a friend of mine who was able to bring the tube from Ohio back to NJ for me, saving $$$ on shipping
Tube tests perfectly on the CR-31A, and will be installed after I return from a week's vacation.