I am interested in one of these clocks for the right price. I found a couple on Ebay and a bunch on the internet. Can someone please help me on value and if these are good running clocks.

Rolling Ball clock

Thank You

Rich

Hello, I saw a really old one years ago when working in Anglesey Abbey for Lord Fairhaven. I was fascinated by the action of the clock. I was told by his Lordship it was a very poor timekeeper but a real conversation piece. I think I was in my early 20s and am now 70. I would like to own one still. Don't expect a good timekeeper, best of luck, Ged.

My neighbor has one. His, like most on the market, are recent reproductions. They can be a bear to keep running, let alone keeping time. But they are great conversation pieces and fun to watch. My neighbor is a mechanic and a machinist and he spent many hours tinkering and adjusting after I explained the mechanics of it to him. I think his averages out to a few minutes a week error, although there are variations during the week.

There was one at Greenvield Village and in talking to people there they echoed the comments above. Not a good time keeper, but very interesting.

HERE is a link to a page on several types of rolling ball clocks including the Congreve.