E. Howard & Co. Boston, Mass. Tambour shelf clock / mantel clock. Large - 63 inches across. 213042.
These large clocks, this one measuring an impressive 63 across, were intended to stand up on a partition, hang from a ceiling, or even be placed on a wall. Installed in any of these locations or displayed in a gallery, this clock makes a statement.
This very large and impressive example measures approximately 63 inches across, 38.5 inches tall, and 7.5 inches deep. The case is constructed in mahogany and retains an older finish. The basic shape is now referred to as a “Tambour.” This general form became very popular as a mantel clock in the 1900s. The common spring-powered mantel versions were made in significant numbers by the Connecticut clock companies. Most of these are approximately 18 inches across. These were inexpensive and sold through a variety of retailers.
The E Howard Clock Company of Boston, Massachusetts, made this stunning example with quality in mind. It shares the same dial format as the E. Howard No., 73 or the Astor-House Clock. The 73 is a catalog clock and was made for a number of years. This Tambour version features a French plate glass dial that measures approximately .75 inches thick. The gold time ring, Arabic hour numerals, and Maker’s name are painted on the back of the dial. This is also true of the black background. Due to the thickness of the glass, one gets a perception of depth when looking at the front of the dial. The time is read or indicated with two large hands. These are finished in gold leaf. They are well-formed, and both are counterweighted. Behind the dial is where the movement is located.
This movement is constructed in brass, having large brass plates and gearing. The pinions and shafts are steel. The two plates are finished with a nickel wash. The front plate is die-stamped by the clockmaker. It is also numbered “11 1/2.” This movement is weight-driven and wound with a key that passes through a hole in the dial. The original lead weight has been replaced with a suitable lead weight covered with sheathing and painted gold. The weight is compounded so that it will provide enough drop to run the clock for an eight-day duration on a full wind. In addition, this movement is fitted with a Geneva Stop Winding gear. This will prevent the clock from being overwound. The pendulum rod is made of wood. The brass-covered lead bob is a standard Howard issue. Because this clock has very limited access to the pendulum or, more specifically, the rating nut, an adjustment arm is fitted to the top of the pendulum above the bridge. This allows for external adjustment from outside the case.
This fine clock was made circa 1910. Most recently, this fantastic clock has been on display for several years in the office of a world-famous Boston optometrist.
Inventory number 213042.
The E. Howard & Company succeeded the Howard & Davis firm in 1857. The Howard & Davis firm was comprised of Edward Howard and David Porter Davis and was established in 1842 in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Both men had just completed their clock apprenticeship under the guidance of Aaron Willard Jr in Boston. The Howard & Davis firm made high-grade clocks, precision balances, sewing machines, fire engines, and watches. After the dissolution of Howard & Davis, Edward Howard became Boston's leading manufacturer of weight-driven residential and commercial clocks. The firm also made a large number of tower clocks and watchman and salve clock systems. These sold well in the last quarter of the 1800s.
It has been said that the E. Howard Clock company never made an inexpensive clock, and everything they made was of very good quality. As a result, Howard clocks have become very collectible and are prized by their owners. Today, the E. Howard name enjoys outstanding name recognition.
For a more in-depth reading of Edward Howard and his various businesses, please read "Willard's Patent Time Pieces," written by Paul Foley.
