Congrats on your find! It looks gorgeous.
If you're interested in learning more about antique tube radios, both the electrical repair and restoration, and also cabinet refinishing, the best source on the net is:
http://www.antiqueradios.com/.
Great group, extremely knowledgeable, and very helpful and friendly. Just like another group we know!
Stop by and take a look.
Uuuummmm, it does make it look better, but probably wouldn't have done the Scott's Liquid Gold thing. No permanent harm done, you're just going to have some extra work to do when you get around to the full job on the cabinet. Right on about the dial lettering, though. Never put any liquid, not even water, on the silkscreened side. Just your breath and some lens cleaning tissue, and then start very slow and careful in an inconspicuous spot. Believe me, I learned my lesson the hard way, too. You don't want to be looking for another dial glass for that radio.
Have fun!
Clay