Set up a new Apple TV without remote

I found an old Apple TV …

Can you detect the exact model?

Identify your Apple TV model - Apple Support

Find your Apple TV model number - Apple Support (A1218, A1378, A1427, A1469, A1625, A1842, A2169, A2737, A2843)

I can’t find the remote to do so. Could I possible connect it with a wired connection to my WiFi and use the app on my phone to set up the date/time, etc?

You will need to have a functional remote for initial setup and to connect it to Wi-Fi. Depending on exact model, you may then be able to switch to the software remote on iPhone.

Possibly you can temporarily borrow a remote from someone else, for the initial setup? Else consider buying a replacement remote. Apple TV (3rd generation or earlier) will need the old style remote A1294. Apple TV (4th generation or later) will need the newer style Siri Remote (A1513, A1962, A2540, or A2854). Apple TV remotes and their compatibility - Apple Support

Also see: discussions.apple.com/thread/254506732.

Unfortunately, that model (2nd generation) does not support the software remote in Control Center on iPhone. You will need a physical remote.

The old style Apple Remote (aluminum) A1294 isn’t sold by Apple anymore, but you may find some other resellers that still have some in their inventory. Also several imitation models have been spotted on Amazon and eBay, just different enough to be “not exactly the same”.

The 2nd generation model should still support iTunes Store movies, and Netflix, and Home Sharing. Not sure what else. Quite a few third party content providers have decided to discontinue their support for this model.