Don't bother trying substitutes. For the cord. Won't work:
Antique Electronic Supply
Do a search for dial cord. $1.00/ft
Tie a slip knot in the fixed end. Re-string and then you can place the springed end on last.
The springs make the dial have tension and it prevents the cord from breaking.
Usually the driving knob (tuning) has a few wraps of cord around it.
The pointer can be set after it is strung and secured by a dab of glue.
I think you need to take the plate off which is attached to the bottom. The pointer will just hang over the edge. Part of the pointer rides along the dial.
I can't make out all of the stringing posts from the picture.
Wait till you get the cord and post back.
Meanwhile you can try a test wind with some carpet thread, but mind you it won't work