E. Howard & Co., Boston, MA. Model No. 10. House and Counting-Room Clock." Figure 8 wall clock." 214053.
This Model Number 10 is more commonly called a “Figure Eight.” This is arguably one of today’s marketplace’s most attractive antique wall clock forms. This example is the smallest of 5 sizes that make up a set. This example measures approximately 2 feet 9 inches (33 inches) long.
This case is constructed in black walnut and retains an original finish. The condition of which is very, very good, making this a very attractive example. This case features a flat throat frame and applied pendants at the top and bottom. The circular moldings are deep and well-formed. They are designed with a very deep cove in the molding. The dial has been professionally repainted. It is an outstanding example. It is signed “E. Howard & Co.” in script. The place location of “Boston” is presented in a block format. This dial is applied to a wooden dial board. The weight-driven movement is brass and of very good quality. The Maker’s name can be found die-stamped on the front plate. The pendulum rod is made of seasoned cherry and retains most of its original gilding. The pendulum bob is zinc. It is covered in brass for compensation. The brass features a concentric ring-turned design. Both painted tablets are original to this clock. The lower tablet is painted in the traditional E. Howard colors of black, red, and gilt paint. The center section of the throat tablet has been left open in the center so that one can view the motion of the gilded pendulum rod. One can view the bob through the lower circular tablet. The black-painted weight board is original. It not only provides a guide for the weight or protection of the pendulum but is also used as a field of color for the pendulum to swing in front of. The weight is cast iron and is original to this clock. This clock is designed to run for 8 days on a wind and was made circa 1875.
Inventory number 214053.
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.
