J&J Taylor

I received an old J&J Taylor S/N 47112 with a S&G dial from an old family member. A great uncle used to keep his service medals from the 1st and 2nd wars in it as well as other items of sentimental value but no one is sure if there is anything of value left in it. It stands about 36" with wheel base and is about 26x28". Hand painted etc. From my understanding the safe was manufactured sometime between 1855 and 1927 when the company folded. My question is this, without having received the combination to unlock it, how accurate does the turning of the dial have to be? Is it required to be directly on the combo number? I have a steth to use, but as for placement to determine tumbler release I am not sure. It's possible that the safe has been drilled previously as there are 2 holes which appear to have been filled. Any help in this would be greatly appreciated as we would like to be able to use this beautiful safe to store some of our memories as well.