Welcome to the Forum!
I may interest some to know that although $99.50 for the set in 1948 sounds fairly cheap, it would be like spending almost $950 on an item in today.
The Pilot TV-37 is one of the best vintage TV's. Not only is unique and historically significant, but it's a great little player when restored!
I regrettably sold my first one years ago (with the original magnifier may I add!

) and recently found another with a nearly NOS quality original CRT. I power this onet up with Variac to help ensure a long life for the CRT.
Good luck with yours!