The Howard & Davis Model No. 2 wall timepiece. 224126.
This Model Number 2 clock, a rare find among the five Howard & Davis style banjo clock sizes, is a testament to your discerning taste. Measuring 3 feet 8 inches long, it stands as the second to the largest of the five separate banjo models, making it a truly unique addition to your collection.
The Howard & Davis firm, a historic company formed in Boston, Massachusetts, by Edward Howard and David Potter Davis in 1842, is a fascinating tale. Both men, who served their apprenticeship to Aaron Willard in Roxbury, Massachusetts, built a reputation for producing exceptionally high-quality items, including clocks, fire pumpers, postal and balance scales, and other measuring devices. This clock is a typical example of their craftsmanship.
The case is cherry, and the outer surfaces are faux-grained with India ink. This process involves applying ink to the case with a feather, simulating the grain pattern exhibited in the exotic wood rosewood. This example is exuberantly grained and has an excellent surface. The wooden bezel is shaped and fitted with glass, and it opens to access the 10-inch-diameter paper dial.
The paper dial is applied to a zinc pan. It features a closed minute ring, Roman-style hour numerals, and a block-style signature. All of the graphics are in excellent original condition.
The weight-driven, 8-day movement is brass and of excellent quality. The front plate is die-stamped with the Maker's name. It reads, "HOWARD & / DAVIS / BOSTON." Having the front plate die-stamped is a plus for the most finicky of collectors. Both plates are rectangular. Four brass turned, and shouldered posts secure them together. Hardened steel shafts support the polished pinions, brass gearing, and recoil escapement. The cast iron drive weight is correct, and the number "2" is cast into the front surface. The pendulum rod is made of wood. It supports a bob that is zinc and covered in brass for compensation. The bob retains much of its original spotting decoration. The bob hangs from a bridge mounted on the front plate. This movement is mounted on a seat-board and is considered to be an excellent timekeeper.
The frames of this clock are fitted with traditional black and gold Howard & Davis tablets, both of which are original to this clock and in excellent condition. Inside the case, you'll find the original weight board and pendulum tie-down, further enhancing this example's collectability.
This outstanding example was made circa 1855.
Inventory number 224126.
The Howard & Davis firm was formed in Boston, Massachusetts, by Edward Howard and David Porter Davis in 1842. Both men were trained and served their apprenticeship in clockmaking to Aaron Willard Jr. of Roxbury, Massachusetts. Their partnership lasted approximately ten years. From 1844 through 1847, Luther S. Stephenson joined the partnership, which was then called Stephenson, Howard & Davis. It is now currently thought that the Howard & Davis name was only used after Stephenson departed. The Howard & Davis Clock Company was located at No 34 Water Street. Here they built a reputation for building very high-quality items, which included various forms of high-grade clocks and precision balances or scales. Banks used gold standard balances. Letter balances were built under contract for the United States Government. These were used in state and county offices. Town standards (scales) and Druggist's balances were also manufactured along with the necessary weights. The company also made sewing machines and fire pumpers. In 1857, the Howard & Davis firm was dissolved when D. P. Davis left to pursue other ventures. In 1857, Davis was part of Davis, Polsey & Co. This firm identified itself as the "late Howard and Davis." They manufactured clocks and a line of pull cord, pin registration watch clocks. This firm lasted until 1860. Posley continued to make these clocks on his own. In 1858, E. Howard began to sign his clocks, E. Howard & Co. This firm enjoyed many prosperous years making clocks and later watches until he retired in 1881.
