Bagatelle Table

The Bagatelle Table, manufactured by The Brunswick-Balke-Collender Company of USA, is a rare and fascinating piece of pinball history. As one of the earliest known examples of a pure mechanical (PM) pinball machine, it showcases the evolution of the game from its roots in 19th-century bagatelle tables to the modern electromechanical machines that followed. While the exact year of production remains unknown, this table's design and mechanics are unmistakably from an era when pinball was still a nascent form of entertainment.

What sets the Bagatelle Table apart is its unique gameplay mechanism. Players use a cue stick to shoot a red ball into motion, with the goal of accumulating points as both balls roll down the playfield. The table features four drop holes and two trap door drop holes, which return balls to the front of the cabinet for further shooting opportunities. This early game design requires players to employ strategy and skill, making it an intriguing challenge for pinball enthusiasts.

The Bagatelle Table's design is notable not only for its innovative gameplay but also for its compact size and simplicity. Measuring 89 inches long, 38 inches wide, and varying in height from 34 to 41 inches, this table was likely designed for home use or small amusement settings. Unfortunately, no information is available on the machine's original artwork or theme, leaving enthusiasts to appreciate its mechanical ingenuity and historical significance. Despite the lack of documentation, the Bagatelle Table remains an essential artifact in the development of pinball as we know it today.