Machine Description

Ten Spot, released by Bally Manufacturing in 1948, represents a classic example of early post-World War II pinball design when manufacturers were working to rebuild the amusement industry after wartime production restrictions. The machine's straightforward title reflected the simple yet engaging gameplay mechanics common to this era.

The Ten Spot was designed during a period when pinball machines were transitioning from simple bagatelle-style games to more complex offerings with innovative features. The machine likely featured the standard components of the era: mechanical score reels, bumpers, and possibly the newly-introduced flippers, which had just been invented in 1947 with Gottlieb's Humpty Dumpty. The scoring system was presumably based around achieving specific point combinations or lighting certain sequences.

Like many machines of this period, Ten Spot would have used the typical mechanical components including score motors, stepper units, and relay switches. The playfield layout would have been designed to take advantage of gravity-fed ball action while providing enough challenge to keep players engaged. These machines were built to be durable and serviceable, as they needed to withstand heavy use in commercial locations.

While specific production numbers are not readily available, machines from this era were typically manufactured in runs of several thousand units. Ten Spot represents an important transition period in pinball history, as manufacturers were beginning to incorporate more sophisticated features and gameplay elements that would eventually lead to the golden age of pinball in the 1970s.