E. Howard & Co. of Boston, Massachusetts. Two-sided gallery clock. 224136.
This two-sided gallery clock, a smaller model originally designed to hang from the ceiling, is a unique piece that can easily be rotated to mount sideways on a wall or upright on a partition. Its oak case, measuring 29 inches in height, and the mounting bracket, 21 inches wide and 8.5 inches deep, add to its distinctiveness. The oak case features a caramel color protected with a shellac 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 movements are well made. The front plates are signed by the maker with a die-stamp. These secondary clock movements are designed to receive an electrical impulse each minute from a master clock located elsewhere in the building. Due to advancements in electrical technology, we are replacing the master clock with a small computer board designed to perform the same function. This computer board fits inside the case, so one can now position this clock in a space without worrying 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 and attract a lot of attention. This would be a nice addition to one's classic car-filled garage today.
This clock was made circa 1910.
These clocks were originally designed for use in large rooms, such as an interior lobby or gallery. They also work well in hallways, barns, pool rooms, and garages.
Inventory number 224136.
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.
