The Flat Iron Building with the time ball raised during a period of testing

Ron Musker a Great Man for Prescot

A special small opening ceremony was held for the time ball on 13th January 2024; the project was almost complete but Ron’s health was failing rapidly so there was no time to be lost. Ron was able to attend the event and to speak with those attending. It was a very pleasant occasion enjoyed by all. Sadly Ron has since died; may he rest in peace. The time ball will be his memorial.

Ron conceived his plan as a means to remind (or educate) the public of Prescot’s former role as the watch and chronometer-making hub it was, supplying movements to watch and chronometer makers around the country and overseas.

The time ball has been installed on Ron’s historic Flat Iron Building in Prescot. Time balls don’t come on the market very often, but Ron found one he could buy. The booklet below tells the story of the time ball’s restoration; how a suitable two hundred year old clock was found to signal the ball to rise and drop; how a lifting arm to raise and release the ball was designed and created and how many other tasks were completed. It was originally intended solely as a gift for Ron, but so great was the interest, it is now included here.

The clock was made by John Johnson in nearby Atherton Street, Prescot in c.1815. It was restored by Phil Irvine. Click image to enlarge.

The project stands in the stair-well immediately below the ball. It houses a bell, the clock and the lifting arm mechanism. This was designed by Jim Arnfied. Click image to enlarge.