E. Howard & Co. of Boston, MA. Two sided station clock. 29105.
This two-sided gallery clock, a smaller model originally designed to hang from the ceiling, is a unique piece that can be easily rotated to mount sideways on a wall or upright on a partition. The oak case, measuring 29 inches in height, and the mounting bracket, 21 inches wide and 8.5 inches deep, add to its distinctiveness. The wood is oak and retains its original dark finish, enhancing its vintage charm.
The two dials are painted and are in excellent original condition. Both dials measure 12 inches in diameter.
The electric-powered movement is well made. The front plate is signed with a die-stamp by the Maker. It was designed to get an electrical impulse each minute from a master clock located somewhere else in the building. As a result of the advancements in electrical technology, we are to replace the master clock with a small computer board designed to perform the same function. This computer board actually fits inside the case. As a result, one can now position this clock in a space and not have to worry about winding it once a week. Currently, we have a couple of these hanging in our shop. They are mounted to the underside of large wooden beams. They attract a lot of attention.
This clock was made circa 1910.
This clock must have been designed for a large room, such as an interior lobby or gallery.
Inventory number 29105.
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.
