E. Howard & Co. Model No., 70-12. Walnut case. DDD-5.
This E. Howard & Company Model Number 70 features a case constructed in walnut, a wood seldom seen in this model. The vast majority of the 70 models were constructed in oak. The naturally darker walnut wood has a tighter grain structure and better figure. This wood features an older finish, and the lighter shade of brown color is excellent.
The clock's dial is zinc and measures 12 inches in diameter. It is paint-decorated and is in original condition. The dial format features a closed minute ring and large Roman-style hour numerals. The dial is signed in block lettering, E. HOWARD & CO. / BOSTON. Spade-shaped hands display the time. Behind the dial is the weight-driven movement.
The brass, eight-day, weight-driven clock mechanism is of excellent quality. The Howard Clock Company guaranteed this model not to vary more than one minute a month. The movement is secured in the case with a single screw that threads thru the backboard and into the backplate. Four-turned pillars support the two rectangular-shaped brass plates. The Maker's name and model number "70" are die-stamped into the front plate. Hardened steel shafts support the polished steel pinions, brass gearing, and recoil escapement. The pendulum hangs from the bridge on the front of the movement. A wooden rod supports a bob that is zinc and covered in brass. The brass covering retains its original damascene design. The bob swings in front of a painted wooden weight board and pendulum tie-down. The cast iron weight is stamped with the number "70." The lower door features a glass tablet that is painted from the back. The traditional E. Howard design and colors of black, red, and gold remain in good original condition.
This fine example was made circa 1900. It measures approximately 32 inches long.
Inventory number DDD-5.
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.
