Gents,
Time I had a word. I've just sold the instrument. I think that Jim is right, based on the assumption that the straps attached to the rails. Having watched the discussion, it makes sense to me that the rails were removed (by, or for, the original owner because it came almost direct). What is there now is very well done and looks good. You can see from the photographs that the fretwork was modified to accommodate the 'rails'. I suspect he thought they would be a good idea and then didn't like them. I've promised Robin to get better photos before it leaves.