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E. Howard & Co. Model No., 10. More commonly called the Figure Eight. Script signature and applied throat moldings.

This model number 10 or the "Figure Eight" form is arguably one of the most attractive antique wall clock forms in today's marketplace. This example is the smallest of 5 different sizes measuring 2 feet 9 inches long. The case is made of black walnut and retains an original finish. The condition of which is very good making this a desirable example. One case design element worth pointing out is the half rounded moldings that are applied to the throat. A small percentage of the examples we have seen have this additional case treatment. This is a nice decorative detail. This model is most commonly found with a flat surface in this location. The 8 inch dial is iron. It is painted and retains the Maker's original signature. This is presented in a lovely script format. The weight driven movement is brass and of very good quality. The Maker's name can be found die-stamped on the front plate. The flat pendulum is made of seasoned cherry and retains much of its original gilding. Please note that it is also shaped. This rod supports a zinc weighted pendulum bob that is covered in brass. The brass is decorated in concentric engraved rings. A damascene pattern decorates every other ring and is in very good condition. The tablets or glasses are painted in the traditional E. Howard colors of black, red and gold. These are old professional repaints and they are mounted in the door. The weight board is painted red. It not only provides a guide for the weight or protection for the pendulum but is also used as a field of color. The pendulum to swing in front it. The weight is cast iron and is original to this clock. It has fallen through the bottom in the past. The case has been skillfully repaired at the bottom. This clock is designed to run for 8 days on a wind and was made circa 1860.

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.