It is hard to tell from the pictures the exact condition, from what I can see the exterior appears sound, but may have been stripped of it's original finish. If there is chew damage inside, that can easily be repaired in such a way to make it disappear to the eye.
I don't know if the works are anything unique so I don't know if getting the works will be difficult or not.
I have always been intrigued by the unusual phonograph cases and have been looking for piano machine but have never come across one.
It looks like a fun project to tackle.
$500 seems a dear price for this. You may try and take a look at it and offer a fair number that you are willing to pay or walk away from, or low ball it and leave your number.
Oh, my bridge. Once your check clears, I'll fedex you the deed and the keys
