E. Howard & Co. Model No. 59-12. A large wall hanging clock. 221104
This Model Number 59-12 is an excellent example of the form. This, the largest model, is seldom seen. Very few examples come to market on a bi-annual basis. The E. Howard Clock catalogs offered four separate sizes of this model. The largest size measures a full 70 inches in length and features a dial that measures 12 inches in diameter. Howard also offered this Vienna-style clock form with dials that measure 10, 9, and a 6-inches in diameter. As the dial sizes became smaller, the case dimensions were adjusted to maintain the proportions of the form. For example, the smallest case size is 36 inches long. All four models were offered in oak, ash, cherry, and walnut wood. The first example of this 59 model was made and sent to the New York Office on May 15, 1874. Howard had high expectations for this clock. It was dubbed "the new number 5." In truth, the production numbers were pretty low. For the 27-year period that the E. Howard records have survived; approximately 325 Vienna clocks were manufactured. The last clock was made on 5/25/1898. In the 1880s, prices ranged from $25 to $60, respectively. Today, very few model 59s come to market on a bi-annual basis.
This fine example is constructed in black walnut and measures approximately 70 inches in length, and is the largest version of the model. The finish is in very good original condition. The shellac enhances the natural color of the walnut wood. Many of the moldings have been finished in black. The contrast is excellent. All six turned wooden decorative finials appear to be original to this clock. The front and sides of the case are fitted with glass panels. The side windows allow additional light into the interior of the case. Looking through the front door, one can view the dial and the pendulum. One's attention is then focused on the weight board, which is constructed in blistered maple. This selection of wood has a fascinating and visually active grain pattern that is memorizing. As a result, blistered maple is used frequently in the construction of musical instruments. The pendulum swings in front of this beautiful backdrop. The pendulum tie-down is mounted to the bottom of this board. The cast iron weight that powers the clock descends behind it.
The painted zinc dial measures 12 inches in diameter. It features a closed minute ring, large Roman-style hour numerals, and the Maker's original block signature. Open diamond hands display the time. The dial is trimmed or framed with a wooden trim ring that has been finished in black. The pendulum rod extends from behind the dial. It is visible through the glass door. The rod is made of seasoned cherry and has been painted silver. The 6.5-inch diameter bob is zinc covered in brass for compensation. The brass has been finished in nickel and is decorated with an engine-turned design of concentric circles.
The weight-driven movement is constructed in brass. It is very good quality. Two large rectangular-shaped plates are supported by four posts or pillars. The plates support the hardened steel shafts that support the brass gearing. The escapement is a recoil setup. The works are weight powered and designed to run for eight days on a full wind. The Maker's name and working location are die-stamped on the front plate.
This clock was made circa 1880.
Inventory number 221104.
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.
