The designer of the New Year's Eve ball reveals its secrets
The 2013 Times Square New Year's Eve Ball at One Times Square on Dec. 27, 2012. (Getty) Credit: The 2013 Times Square New Year's Eve Ball at One Times Square on Dec. 27, 2012. (Getty)
Jim O'Leary has spent the past 13 years helping craft the 12,000 pound crystal ball that descends on New York City at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Day.
O'Leary, the director of design at Waterford Crystals, spoke with us about the work, materials, that goes into the iconic Times Square New Year's eve ball, as well as its message. iconic Times Square New Year's Eve ball. What's the most exciting part of being involved with the New Year's Eve ball dropping? Being involved with Times Square on New Year's Eve ...t. For the millions there, and the billions who tune in around the world for the very, very special event, I'm honored. And it takes my breath away to be back in New York City, watching the art and technical masterpiece coming down the seven-foot-pole. It's phenomenal.
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