E. Howard & Co. Boston, Massachusetts. The Model No. 6 wall regulator. Figure 8. 225160.
This Number 6 Regulator, also known as the "Figure Eight" form, is crafted from elegant black walnut and preserves its lustrous historic finish, highlighting the wood’s natural beauty. The case remains in superb condition, with a rich patina and coloration that enhance its appeal. The front of the case is gracefully hinged, serving as an access door adorned with decorative top and bottom pediments featuring refined applied moldings. The stepped molding at the center of the door adds depth and sophistication. The finely turned wooden bezels are sectioned and embellished with a large cove molding, finished with a delicate beaded edge for added elegance. The door showcases three glass panels: the upper panel provides an unobstructed view of the dial and hands; the middle, hourglass-shaped throat glass, is reverse-painted in black and gold with a clear center to reveal the gilded pendulum rod against the dramatic black-painted weightboard; and the lower circular tablet is beautifully painted in the traditional Howard palette of black, red, and gold. Some of the black areas exhibit a gentle lifting in the paint, revealing the original artistry. The center of this tablet remains clear, allowing the brass-faced pendulum bob to shine through. Both painted tablets are original to the clock, and the Company’s setup label remains on the back of the door, underscoring their authenticity.
The iron dial on this largest model measures 14 inches across and is original to the clock. The hours are marked with Roman numerals, and the smaller seconds dial is divided into ten-second increments with Arabic numerals. The company name is painted below the center arbor in block letters: "E. Howard & Co. / BOSTON." The time is shown in the traditional way. The hands have open diamond shapes at their ends and are also original to the clock.
The weight-driven movement, now photographed in as-found condition, is constructed in brass and of very good quality. The Maker's name can be found die-stamped into the front plate. The heavy plates are rectangular and finely finished. This movement is designed to beat seconds on a Graham deadbeat escapement. The winding drum is fitted with maintaining or retaining power. This device is designed to maintain power to the great wheel during the winding process. This has two positive effects. First, it prevents the loss of impulse to the time train during winding. Secondly, it protects the teeth on the escape wheel due to the large size and weight of the 8-inch pendulum bob. A Geneva stop work will prevent you from overwinding this clock. The pendulum is carefully suspended by a double suspension spring mounted to the top of the movement. The rod is made from straight-grain cherry that was appropriately seasoned and retained its original gilding. The zinc bob is covered with a brass jacket. The bob's face is adorned with several 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.
A black-painted wooden weight board guides the drive weight and keeps it from touching the pendulum. It also serves as a background color for the pendulum as it swings.
This fine clock was made circa 1870.
This Number 6 Regulator, also known as the "Figure Eight" form, is considered one of the most attractive antique wall clocks available today. This impressive example is the largest of five sizes with this unique shape. It measures 4 feet 10 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 6.75 inches deep. The Howard price list of 1874 listed the cost of this model at $100.
Inventory number 225160.
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.
