Star-Jet

Star-Jet (marketed with the sensational Blast-Off extra balls feature) is an outer space fantasy-themed electro-mechanical pinball machine designed by Ted Zale with artwork by George Molentin. Bally produced 1,050 units of this two-player game as model number 733, featuring a project date of October 1963.

The playfield features two flippers, three pop bumpers, two passive bumpers, two slingshots, five standup targets, and two kick-out holes supporting 2-ball or 3-ball multiball gameplay. The machine displays a maximum score of 1,999 points per player with a replay wheel maximum of 25. The game offers both 3-ball and 5-ball play options, utilizing three chimes and a knocker for audio feedback.

Star-Jet achieved historic significance as the first pinball machine to feature 3-ball multiball, a groundbreaking innovation that would become popular in modern pinball design. The machine also debuted a universal transformer and motor that functioned for both domestic and export machines. With a fun rating of 7.6/10, Star-Jet represents Ballys innovation during the Space Race era when space themes dominated popular culture.

From Melissa Harmon's "Pinball Style":

STARJET: Retro Future ipods

1963 Bally

George Molentin

Beautifully fitted bodices with faux vests and diamond shaped collars are all the rage in the Starjet set. 

Starjet is artist George Molentin’s accurate prediction of the future, with big-haired spacegirls proudly holding their ipods. It’s uncanny! How did he know there were going to be ipods?

But why aren’t we all flying around in outer space already? In really cute outfits. That’s disappointing.