As Henry Ford built the groundbreaking Model T automobile and unleashed personal freedom, he often relied on a BALL pocket watch for precise timekeeping. His mechanical caliber, serial no. B2141130, was fine-tuned to Webb C. Ball’s commercial standard of accuracy, criteria made for the common man with high levels of efficiency and reliability.
A master of mechanical devices, Ford would often disassemble his BALL watch and gaze at its inner components working together in complete harmony. From the office to the manufacturing floor, it was a tool in his pocket and an ally at his side. Today, this piece of history is part of The Ford Museum’s private collection in Ford’s hometown of Dearborn, Michigan, USA.
FROM UNDERDOG TO VISIONARY TO LEGEND.
Profound and far-reaching, Henry Ford's impact on society was the result of indisputable perseverance. From battling dyslexia as a child to facing bankruptcy as an entrepreneur, Ford never gave in. His introduction of the assembly line revolutionized manufacturing, making automobiles more affordable and accessible to the masses. In doing so, he liberated the human spirit and unleashed a new form of exploration.
As people everywhere cranked up a Model T and never looked back, his pioneering innovation propelled economic growth, created countless jobs and elevated living standards thanks to high wages. His visionary approach and commitment to efficiency have created an indelible mark on the modern world of manufacturing and commerce – and continue to inspire the dreamers, rebels and the self-made.
THE ORIGINAL WATCHMAKING PIONEER.
Although Webb C. Ball’s official railroad standards of accuracy guided America’s railroaders, they also emboldened everyday citizens, businesspeople and revolutionaries. Each mechanical movement was tested for an accuracy range of -/+ 30 seconds per week, or -/+ 4.29 seconds per day, following stringent criteria for size, dial design, jewel bearings, adjustments, isochronism and durability.
Known as Ball’s Standards, these criteria resulted in reliable timepieces and robust tools for business. With such exacting requirements for precision, efficiency and readability, it is no wonder that Henry Ford relied on his very own BALL pocket watch for the rigors of daily life.
ENGINEER M ENDURANCE.
Inspired by Henry Ford and driven by our heritage, we are strengthening our watchmaking future with the new Engineer M Endurance. Inside, our Chronometer Manufacture Caliber RRM7309-CS ensures an accuracy range of -2/+4 seconds per day. As we move forward in our watchmaking journey, we will continue to re-institute our railroads standard of accuracy in several models, as we equip modern explorers on the road to greatness.
