E. Howard & Co. Model No., 10. Figure Eigh twall clock. 222019.
This model number 10, or the "Figure Eight" form, is arguably one of the most attractive antique wall clock forms in the marketplace today. This example is the smallest of 5 individual sizes, measuring 2 feet 9 inches long. The case is made of black walnut and retains an original finish. The condition of which is very good, making this a desirable example. This model was in production for more than 40 years. Over that time, the case design changed slightly. I believe that the early examples were made, like this one with half-rounded moldings applied to the case's throat section. A small percentage of the models we have seen have this additional case treatment. This molding profile was changed to a flat molding, and eventually, the throat section was flat across. This clock has a half-rounded molding.
The painted iron dial measures eight inches in diameter. This clock is signed in this location by the Maker in a script format. The weight-driven movement is brass and of excellent quality. The Maker's name can be found die-stamped on the front plate. The rectangular-shaped plates still retain their original scraping decoration. The flat pendulum is made of seasoned cherry and retains much of its original gilding. Please note that this rod is also shaped. The rod supports a zinc-weighted pendulum bob that is covered in brass. The brass is decorated in concentric engraved rings. A damascene pattern decorates every other ring, which is in very good condition. These tablets or glasses are in excellent original condition and are painted in the traditional E. Howard colors of black, red, and gold. A red-painted weight board is mounted inside the case. It provides a guide for the drive weight. It also protects the pendulum and is used as a background field of color when looking through the clear openings in the glass tablets. The pendulum swings in front of it. The drive weight is cast iron and is original to this clock. This clock is designed to run for eight days on a full wind and was made circa 1860.
Inventory number 222002.
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.
