The Balch & Smith Records document the business transactions and transitions of a Salem, Massachusetts, clock and watch business. The account books record Benjamin Balch's sole enterprise, his partnership with Jesse Smith, and Smith's business after the partnership ended. The collection is arranged in three series: Benjamin Balch Records, Balch & Smith Records, and Jesse Smith Records.

Comprised mainly of repair accounts, the entries record the name of the watchmaker along with the owner and type of repair. Of special note are the daily profit and sales records; notations about Smith's apprenticeship and the location of Smith's shop; and the accounts of new watches purchased and sold.