Webb C. Ball clock question

February 15, 2010, 21:35

Theodore J. Brown Sr.

I'm not sure if I'm asking this in the right forum, but here goes nothing....I know that Ball had clocks as well as watches made, but I'd like to know if there is any such thing as a Ball locomotive clock, I've never heard of one, but since Mr. Ball was into just about everything to do with railroad time service, it would seem like a logical thing to have made for those who would have a use for one.Thanks, and pardon me if I should have posted this in the Ball watch section...Ted Brown.

February 19, 2010, 11:22

Lindell V. Riddle

Hi Ted,

We linked this topic into both locations as you suggested.

You are probably aware that in addition to his far-flung Railroad Time Inspection business also Ball had one of the most successful retail jewelry stores in Northeastern Ohio and there they sold a vast array of merchandise.

Among the items would be clocks such as you are asking about which would be flat on the back with mounting holes around the edge. Based upon the design of a ships clock they would be mounted flat on the wall for use in trains and similar situations. I have seen these but do not have one in my collection and we would expect to find "Webb C. Ball, Cleveland Ohio" or "Ball Watch Company, Cleveland" on the dial. That former of the two names which refers specifically to the retail jewelry store is the more likely to find on clocks and watches.

Here are some related topics...

Click for Larry Buchan comments on Locomotive Clocks and a general search for "Locomotive Clocks" show some more clocks, usually marked as Seth Thomas and used in Locomotive settings.

Lindell

February 19, 2010, 21:46

Theodore J. Brown Sr.

Thank you, Lindell, I will check out Larry's posts.I've always wondered about these type clocks, to me it would seem almost impossible for Ball not to have had at least a few of them made...I wish I could have gone into the Ball store, I'd have been like a kid in a candy store!, Best Regards, Ted.

February 20, 2010, 09:18

Lindell V. Riddle

Thank you Ted,

Speaking of the retail jewelry store in Cleveland, it started out on Superior and later moved to Euclid Avenue. Check this topic Was this watch company the Webb C. Ball Company? that rambles a bit but shows both locations as they are today and links up some interesting history we have put together.

Like the lyrics of Elton John's homage to Marylyn Monroe... "I would have liked to known you but I was just a kid..." the Ball store was gone before most of us could have visited.

Be well my friend,

Lindell