Serial number is probably on the rear shear at the very right-hand end under where the tailstock usually sits when not in use. +1 on the Drummondlathes Yahoo group as best source of info on these ancient beasts.

Looks like a useful machine, with the v-belt conversion, countershaft and reversing switch etc all intact. And a part set of change gears to boot.

Action that first reply. They are mostly a good bunch over there (the Drummond forum). Shame about the yahoo bit, but even if you can’t navigate the site, someone will help with getting to the info. Better to look for yourself, than rely on others to feed you with all the details, unless you have specific questions.

You have probably found out already but for people reading this far in the future it is a "pre-B" that is one made before the B-type. They never called then "A-type" presumably not thinking about the future enough hence we use the rather odd designation. It is characterised by the leadscrew being down the middle of the bed and ceased production before WW1.
The B-type is easily recognised by the flat bar along the front as well as the leadscrew and sometimes the round bar brace going across the top of the headstock like a handle, and a basic apron with permanently engaged nut on the leadscrew.