E. Howard & Co., Makers, Boston. An Astronomical Floor Standing Regulator Clock with a single-arm gravity escapement. 221130.
This floor-standing regulator was manufactured by the E. Howard & Company of Boston, Massachusetts, circa 1859. This regulator form is illustrated in the 1858 printing of the E. Howard & Co., catalog. This early catalog advertises that E. Howard & Co. was the successor to Howard & Davis and The Boston Watch Co. This Regulator predates the numbering system applied to the later astronomical regulator versions. It is referred to as their “Astronomical Clock.” This catalog states that “this clock, for beauty of workmanship and nicety of performance, is fully equal to any imported Regulator.” Astronomical Clocks like this one were used in observatories, Railroads, and by watchmakers. These Regulators achieved a high level of accuracy, varying by one hundredth of a second per day. It was available in a number of requested dial sizes and case shapes. This may be the standard version, as similar clocks are known. One of which is in the Smithsonian collection, and several others have been sold publicly in the last decade.
The distinctively shaped case is crafted from black walnut and retains an aged surface. The cabinet is, for the most part, complete except where noted in this description. The base section is substantial. The bottom board rests on the floor. The outer edge is finished in a half-rounded profile. The base section features inset panels on three sides. The center panel features a vibrant selection of crotch walnut graining. The wood selected for the two side panels is more conservatively grained. A complex molding transitions the base to the waist. This middle section features glass panels on all three sides. Nicely shaped molding frames these glass panels. Access to the case's interior is through the front panel. This is not hinged. Two wooden dowels or pins secure the bottom in place. The top is held in place with a spring-loaded catch. Unlock the top lock by turning the knob above it, and the panel tips out from the top to disengage. Access through this door allows one to adjust the pendulum's timing. Please note that the board that supports the pendulum swing indicator is missing. Also missing is the wooden mount for the swing indicator and the brass beat scale. We are prepared to restore these two elements if one wishes. A multi-shaped molding transitions the waist to the neck. The neck area is nicely tapered and supports the case's round head. Due to the shape of the head, this form is often called a “drum-head.” The construction of this head is evident from the sides. It is constructed from six layers of laminated wood, which are then shaped. This early model is also decorated with two carved details positioned around the bezel. The lower carving is attached to the case. The carving at the top of the case is mounted on the bezel with dowels. It will tip back if you open this dial door. Both carved details are nicely executed and feature a pleasing design. The circular-shaped bezel is fitted with glass. It is hinged at the top of the case and locks closed with a spring-loaded lock. The knob for this lock is located in the center of the lower carving.
If you are not familiar with the format of the astronomical regulator dial, it can seem strange. The hours, minutes, and seconds are displayed independently. This dial features a 12-hour layout. (Occasionally, you will find these in a 24-hour format.) The minute ring is located along the perimeter of this dial. Each of the twelve five-minute markers is indicated in Arabic numerals. These are positioned on the outside of the minute ring. This closed minute ring is divided into 60 divisions. The minute hand is centered on this dial. The seconds display is located inside the time ring below the 60-minute mark. This is also divided into 60 increments. Each of the 10-second divisions is marked with the corresponding Arabic numeral. The second hand is fitted directly onto the escape-wheel arbor. The hour display is positioned in the lower half of the dial. Each hour is represented by a Roman numeral. The Maker’s name is beautifully engraved across the middle of the dial in large script lettering. It reads, “E. Howard & Co. - Makers, Boston.” The dial sheet is brass and measures approximately 14.5 inches in diameter. The brass dial plate is skillfully engraved. The engravings are filled with paraffin, and then the dial surface is treated with a silver wash. The silver does not adhere to the paraffin, resulting in excellent contrast between the dial's flat surfaces and the engravings.
This movement is heavily constructed. The two large rectangular-shaped plates are supported by five large turned pillars. The shaped pillars are secured with screws. Brass dust covers are fitted on the three exposed sides of the works. These are secured to the sides of the plates with thumbscrews. All outer-facing surfaces, plates, and dust covers are decorated with scraping. This design remains in very good condition. The grooved winding barrel is mounted between the plates. The works are powered by a single weight and are wound with a crank key. Originally, it had a Geneva stop work. This gear needs to be restored. The weight descends to the left of the pendulum in the interior of the case. This movement is designed to run for 8 days. The escape wheel is cut as a dead-beat. The pallet facings are fitted with jewels, as are the first two holes. This movement is also fitted with maintaining power. The pendulum is impulsed by a single-arm gravity escapement. The pendulum suspension hangs from a bridge that is mounted to the back of the case. At the top of the crutch is a Manuel beat adjuster. This clock is fitted with a brass and steel pendulum rod, a decorative rating nut, and a two-glass-jar mercury pendulum bob.
The pendulum frame is constructed of steel and brass. The two glass jars feature a cut design and are original to this clock. Brass caps secure the jars in the frame. The jars should be filled with mercury. The mercury compensates for temperature changes and keeps the center of gravity stable throughout the unit. The rating nut is engraved with graduations for adjustment. This pendulum swings behind the clockwork.
This clock is approximately 7 feet 8 inches (92 inches) tall. Wen measured at the upper waist molding; the case is 21.5 inches wide and almost 14 inches deep.
This is an early example, made circa 1858.
Inventory number 221167.
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.
