E. Howard & Company Model No. 5-Square bottom wall timepiece, commonly known as a 'Banjo clock.' 224153.
The Model No. 5 – Square (bottom) was included in the 1858 E. Howard clock catalog. The catalog entry illustrates that this model was originally marketed for "Dining Rooms, Offices, and small apartments." Both the Howard & Davis and then the E. Howard Clock Companies manufactured this model. In comparison to the more commonly found rounded base examples, this version was made in relatively small numbers, adding to its exclusivity. Currently, very few Square box versions are seen in the marketplace, most of which are signed by the Howard & Davis firm. It is a rare find to come across an example signed by the "E. Howard Clock Co." Based on the construction of the clock, this had to have been made shortly after the succession of the Howard & Davis firm into the E. Howard firm in 1858.
This Model No. 5-Square is constructed on the Model No. 5's (Standard) dimensions. This model measures 29 inches long, 10.25 inches wide in the lower box, and just under 4 inches deep, and has a 7-inch diameter dial. It is the smallest example of five separate banjo models this firm manufactured. The other four models were constructed on a graduating scale. The largest of the five models is the No. 1 Regulator. This regulator is significantly larger, measuring 50 inches long and 20 inches wide across the lower box, and features a 12-inch diameter dial. All of the models are traditionally constructed in cherry wood and grained with ink to simulate the vibrant pattern found in rosewood.
This is an excellent example. The movement is made of brass and is of very good quality. It is mounted to the case from the back with a single screw. The rectangular-shaped brass plates retain their original damascene design. The front plate of this clock is not die-stamped, as is the case with most of the clocks that share this form. The works are weight-powered and designed with a recoil escapement. This clock is considered an accurate timekeeper for its small size. The pendulum hangs from a bridge mounted to the top of the movement. The pendulum is constructed with a brass keystone and a wooden rod. The lead bob is covered in brass and can be viewed through the opening on the lower tablet. The brass bob retains much of its original damascene decoration. The pendulum can be secured to the weight board via a brass tie-down.
The zinc dial measures approximately 7 inches in diameter. The dial graphics are printed on paper and is applied to the zinc pan. This dial is signed in script lettering by the Maker. The working location is printed in block lettering. It reads, "E. Howard & Co. / BOSTON."
The case is constructed in cherry and retains much of its original grain-painted decoration. The applied ink pattern simulates the grain exhibited in rosewood. The glasses are reverse painted in the traditional Howard & Davis colors of black and gold and are in original condition. In the center of the lower glass is an oval that is left undecorated. Through this clear section, one can view the brass-faced bob. The pendulum swings in front of a wooden weight board that separates it from the weight. The joinery of the lower box is exposed. Look closely at the joints, and you can see the dovetails.
This fine clock, in excellent condition, was made circa 1858.
Case lot 323 in the lower door frame also die-stamped into the hinge.
Inventory number 224153.
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.
