E. Howard & Co., of Boston, MA. Model No. 6 Regulator. "Watchman’s Bank and Public Office Clock." SS-61.
This Number 6 Regulator, or the "Figure Eight" form, is arguably one of the most attractive antique wall clock forms in today's marketplace. This impressive example is the largest of 5 individual sizes that share this distinctive form. This case measures 4 feet 10 inches long. It is made of black walnut and retains an older finish. The condition of which is very good making it a desirable example. The front of this case is also a door. It is hinged and swings to the right. This door is fitted with glass. The upper glass is clear, and you can view the dial through it. The middle tablet or throat glass is decorated in black and gold from the back. The center section is left clear so you can view the motion of the gilt-finished pendulum rod. The lower circular tablet is painted in the traditional E. Howard colors of black, red, and gold. The center of this is also left clear in order to view the brass-faced pendulum bob.
The dial on this clock measures 14 inches in diameter and is in very good original condition. It is iron and painted with a heavy coat of paint. The hours are indicated with Roman-style numerals. The subsidiary seconds dial is divided into ten-second increments. These are labeled in an Arabic format. The Company name is signed below the center arbor in block lettering. It reads, "E. Howard & Co., / Boston." This is an original block signature. It has faded over time.
The hands are done in a traditional format for this form having open diamonds out on the ends.
The weight-driven movement is constructed in brass and of very good quality. The Maker's name can be found die-stamped into the front plate. The plates a quite heavy and are finely finished. This movement is designed to beats seconds. It features maintaining or retaining power. This is a device that maintains power on the great wheel while one winds this clock. This has two positive effects. First, it prevents the loss of time while winding. Secondly, it protects the teeth on the escape wheel due to the size and weight of the pendulum and 8-inch bob. This movement also features a Graham deadbeat escapement and a Geneva stop work which will prevent you from overwinding this clock. The pendulum is carefully suspended by a double spring from the top of the movement. The rod is made from straight seasoned grained cherry and retains its' original gilding. The bob measures 8 inches in diameter. It is zinc and covered with a brass jacket for compensation. The face of the bob is decorated with a number of engraved concentric rings. The original cast iron weight is impressed with the number 6. This clock is designed to run for eight days on a full wind.
This example retains its' original weight board, which is painted red. This board provides a guide for the weight or protection of the pendulum and is also used as a field of color for the pendulum to swing in front of. In addition, the Maker's original setup label is pasted inside the case on the bottom board. Approximately 65% of it remains intact.
This fine clock was made circa 1875.
Inventory number SS-162.
The E. Howard & Company represents a significant chapter in American horological history, continuing the legacy of the esteemed Howard & Davis firm after 1857. Established in 1842 in Roxbury, Massachusetts, Howard & Davis was the brainchild of Edward Howard and David Porter Davis, both of whom trained under the legendary Aaron Willard Jr. Their early work set new standards for precision timekeeping and craftsmanship in 19th-century America. The firm’s innovations extended beyond clocks to include balances, sewing machines, fire engines, and watches—demonstrating a remarkable breadth of technical achievement. By 1852, their manufactory was a landmark in Roxbury, as seen on period maps. Following the dissolution of Howard & Davis, Edward Howard’s vision propelled him to become Boston’s leading maker of weight-driven clocks, catering to both residential and commercial needs. Notably, the company played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American tower clocks and advanced timekeeping systems during the late 1800s, contributing to the growing network of public and institutional clocks across the country. The completion of a new factory complex in 1873 further cemented their influence, with separate facilities for clocks and watches reflecting the scale and ambition of their operations.
The legacy of the E. Howard Clock Company endures as one of the most respected in American horology. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, the company never produced an inexpensive clock; instead, it set benchmarks for accuracy, durability, and elegance. Its clocks became the standard in schools, public buildings, and railway stations across the country, marking significant moments in the nation’s growth. Collectors and institutions alike prize Howard clocks for their superior craftsmanship and historical importance. Today, the E. Howard name remains synonymous with exceptional quality, technical achievement, and an enduring influence on the art and science of clockmaking.
