Mellotronists

So, I hope I don't start anything with this question, but I'm wondering
if, with all the talk in the auction description of restoration, the
photos were taken before or after said restoration. I hope it's before,
because the poor thing looks like it's about to fall apart.
The photos are fascinating though. They really emphasize the "home
made" aspect of the machine - the wiring around the cycling (?) motor
(is that pitch control circuitry?) frightens me.

john b
1407