That's known as a "gap bed" lathe. It allows for a short, larger diameter workpiece to be spun over the ways. I'm about to modify one of my 12 inch swing Atlas/Craftsman lathes by raising the headstock, tool post, and tailstock by 3 inches so I can swing a bigger faceplate- - - -16 inches, I believe. I plan to use that one for refacing flywheels and boring the big ends of Babbit connecting rods for insert bearings.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!