E. Howard & Co., of Boston, Massachusetts. The Model No. 7, "House and Counting-Room Clocks." TT-81.
This very impressive wall timepiece is cataloged as the Model Number 7. It was manufactured by the E. Howard & Company of Boston, Massachusetts, and was originally marketed as being "Well adapted for banks, insurance offices and large rooms." Of the five E. Howard & Company Figure Eight sizes, the No. 7, is arguably the most difficult model to find. As a result, this is considered a rare clock and the most important version to find if your goal is to assemble the entire set of five.
The No. 7 case measures 4 feet 2 inches long and is second to the largest example of the five individual sizes. This example is constructed in black walnut and retains its original finish, which has been recently enhanced and rubbed down. The color is excellent. The front of this case serves double duty. It is hinged on the right and opens to access the case's interior. The flat molding in the middle section is an interesting construction detail that the door incorporates in its design. Most figure eight forms are flat in this location. This door is fitted with glass. The upper glass is clear, and through it, you are able to view the dial. The middle tablet or throat glass is decorated in black and gold from the back. The center section is left clear so that you can view the motion of the gilt wooden pendulum rod. The lower circular tablet is painted in the traditional E. Howard colors of black, red, and gold. The center of this is also left clear to view the brass-faced pendulum bob. Both painted tablets are in good original condition.
The heavy iron dial on this clock measures 12 inches in diameter and is in very good original condition. It is painted with a heavy coat of paint. The hours are indicated with Roman-style figures. The Company name is signed below the center arbor in an unusual block-style lettering. It reads, "E. Howard & Co., / Boston." This is an original signature.
The hands are fitted with open diamonds out on the ends.
The weight-driven movement is constructed in brass and is of good quality. The Maker's name is die-stamped into the front plate in the upper left corner. The plates a quite heavy and were originally finely finished. This movement features a recoil escapement. The pendulum is suspended from the bridge, which is mounted to the top of the movement. The rod is made from straight-grain cherry. Before it was constructed, the wood was appropriately seasoned and gilded. It now retains this original treatment. The bob is zinc and covered with a brass jacket. The brass is decorated with several engraved concentric rings. Every other one is decorated with a damascene design. A cast-iron weight powers this movement designed to run for eight days on a full wind. The weight is stamped with the number two and is original to this clock.
This clock was made circa 1870.
Inventory number TT-81.
The E. Howard & Company represents a significant chapter in American horological history, continuing the legacy of the esteemed Howard & Davis firm after 1857. Established in 1842 in Roxbury, Massachusetts, Howard & Davis was the brainchild of Edward Howard and David Porter Davis, both of whom trained under the legendary Aaron Willard Jr. Their early work set new standards for precision timekeeping and craftsmanship in 19th-century America. The firm’s innovations extended beyond clocks to include balances, sewing machines, fire engines, and watches—demonstrating a remarkable breadth of technical achievement. By 1852, their manufactory was a landmark in Roxbury, as seen on period maps. Following the dissolution of Howard & Davis, Edward Howard’s vision propelled him to become Boston’s leading maker of weight-driven clocks, catering to both residential and commercial needs. Notably, the company played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American tower clocks and advanced timekeeping systems during the late 1800s, contributing to the growing network of public and institutional clocks across the country. The completion of a new factory complex in 1873 further cemented their influence, with separate facilities for clocks and watches reflecting the scale and ambition of their operations.
The legacy of the E. Howard Clock Company endures as one of the most respected in American horology. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, the company never produced an inexpensive clock; instead, it set benchmarks for accuracy, durability, and elegance. Its clocks became the standard in schools, public buildings, and railway stations across the country, marking significant moments in the nation’s growth. Collectors and institutions alike prize Howard clocks for their superior craftsmanship and historical importance. Today, the E. Howard name remains synonymous with exceptional quality, technical achievement, and an enduring influence on the art and science of clockmaking.
