E. Howard & Co., Boston, Massachusetts. Model Number 11 Keyhole. A wall timepiece. 223129.
This fine wall timepiece was made by the E. Howard Clock Company in Boston, Massachusetts. They cataloged it as the Model No. 11, and they claimed it was well “adapted for rooms where a large dial is required, and the cost low.” In the 1870s, it was originally priced at $25.00. Today, this model is often referred to as the “Keyhole” in the trade due to the case form and its resemblance to a keyhole found in most doors of the period.
The case is constructed of cherry and stained with India ink to simulate the grain pattern of rosewood. The original graining is in very good original condition. The nicely shaped bezel is fitted with glass.
The bezel is hinged and opens to access the painted dial. This dial measures eleven inches in diameter. It is decorated with a segmented minute ring and Roman-style hour numerals. It is signed by the clockmaker. Open moon-style hands display the time.
The movement is made of brass and is of excellent quality. It is weight-powered or driven and features a recoil escapement. It is a very accurate timekeeper for its small size. The movement is die-stamped on the front plate, “E. Howard & Company / Boston / 5.” The cast iron weight is original to this clock. The original wooden rod supports the brass-faced bob and is decorated with a concentric ring-turned design formatted with damascene patterns lightly engraved in the brass. This bob can be viewed through the opening in the lower glass. This glass is paint-decorated from the back in the traditional black, gold, and red Howard colors. Pasted inside this door is E. Howard’s “DIRECTIONS FOR PUTTING UP THE CLOCK.” This label has experienced some minor losses and light staining. Overall, it is in good original condition and is a nice bonus. The weight board, mounted inside the case, is painted black. The pendulum tie-down is mounted to this board.
This fine clock was made circa 1875. It is approximately 31 inches long. The bezel measures 13.25 inches wide and 4.75 inches deep.
Inventory number 223129.
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.
