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