E. Howard & Co. Model No. 11 wall clock. The Keyhole. Wall clock. TT-115.
This fine example of the model Number 11 was made by the E. Howard Clock Company in Boston, MA. This model is often referred to as the “Keyhole” in the trade due to the case form and its resemblance to the shape of a keyhole found in most doors of the period.
This is a special order example in that the case is constructed in black walnut. The standard wood used is cherry, and the vast majority of these clocks made were constructed in that wood. This walnut example retains an older surface of finish that exhibits the traditional areas of normal wear from usage. The case measures a full 31 inches in length. The nicely shaped bezel is fitted with glass. It is hinged, and swings open to access the painted dial and the hands. The painted iron dial measures approximately eleven inches in diameter. The clockmaker signs it in a bold block letter format. The hours are indicated in Roman-style numerals. Behind the dial, the brass-made movement is mounted to the backboard. This is excellent quality. It is weight-powered or driven and features a recoil escapement. For its small size, it is considered a very accurate timekeeper. This movement is die-stamped on the front plate by the Maker. It reads, “E. HOWARD & COMPANY / BOSTON.” It is weight-driven. The cast iron weight is original to this clock. The pendulum is mounted in front of the movement. The brass bob is supported by the original wooden rod and features a ring-turned design. This design includes a fancy damascene pattern. This can be viewed through the original lower glass decorated in black and gold. It is my opinion that this glass is original to this example. There are several orders that exist in the E. Howard records that specify this glass color combination in several other models. The weight board, painted black, is original to the clock.
This fine clock was made circa 1865. It is approximately 31 inches long. The bezel measures 13.25 inches wide, and the case 4.75 inches deep.
Inventory number TT-115.
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.
