Contrasting stillness with meditative movement, spinning tops have been a perennial object of fascination for children, adults, and even Ray and Charles Eames (whose three-minute film, Tops, was introduced in 1957). The Ali Top’s (1995) cherry base and walnut shaft were hand-lathed by Klaus Mader. It has difficulty level of 4, with 1 being the hardest. The tall, thin shaft enables the youngest players to twirl it between their palms. Mader’s tops are distinguished by the burned-in stripe around each top’s equator – as well as their sublime symmetry. So beautifully balanced, they spin for minutes at a time. With shapes that seem to pique curiosity in any who touch them, these tops are asking to be spun. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Made in Austria.