According to some apocryphal information, I read Ball pocket watches were imported and used by the railroads for the engineers and conductors. When a train was on time, it was referred to as being “on the Ball.” I do know a device with a ball existed to show an engineer it was safe to proceed existed. “Keep your eye on the ball,” from sports is also a source as are others. Not saying the railroad connection is verified fact, but I found it interesting.
According to some apocryphal information, I read Ball pocket watches were imported and used by the railroads for the engineers and conductors. When a train was on time, it was referred to as being “on the Ball.” I do know a device with a ball existed to show an engineer it was safe to proceed existed. “Keep your eye on the ball,” from sports is also a source as are others. Not saying the railroad connection is verified fact, but I found it interesting.