Waterford Crystal has made several official Times Square New Year’s Eve balls, including the 2000 millennium ball.
The Irish crystal manufacturer became associated with the event through the design of the millennium ball, which was unveiled for the celebration welcoming the year 2000. Its use of crystal panels and detailed geometric decoration helped turn the descending ball into a more elaborate annual work of design rather than merely a lighted object.
Waterford continued supplying major versions and replacement panels for later balls. Modern Times Square balls combine crystal triangles, metal framing, and computer-controlled lighting, allowing changing colors and patterns during the ceremony.
The company is sometimes confused with Swarovski or Tiffany because all are famous names in luxury glass or jewelry. Waterford’s connection is specifically with the Times Square ball tradition. The original 1907 ball was much simpler and was not made by Waterford; the company’s involvement belongs to the modern crystal-ball era.