E. Howard & Co. Model No. 27. A marble faced wall clock. Boston, Mass. TT-142.
Marble Dial Clocks were originally designed for and used in banks, halls, public buildings, hotels, railway depots, church galleries, and all large apartments. Marble was selected as a material and accepted by the public because of its distinctive look. The surface of these clocks is easy to keep clean and is very durable.
The entire front of this case is a piece of Italian marble measuring approximately one-half inch thick and approximately 2 feet 11 inches or 35 inches long. The Model No. 27 is the larger size of this form. Two versions were offered in the Howard catalogs. The smaller version, the Model No. 28, measures 2 feet 4 inches in length.
The marble selected for this example features a very subdued grain pattern. The surface has taken a grey tint. The stone features a nicely formed edge that is in very good condition. It is not cracked or chipped. This is fitted onto a case that is constructed in pine. The outer surface of this case now features a natural wood finish. The marble is secured to the case with two large screws. The upper section of this example measures 18 inches across. The time ring, featuring Roman-style hour numerals, measures 15.5 inches in diameter to the outer edge of the minute ring. The painted graphics on this example have been professionally restored and are now in excellent condition.
The weight-driven movement is brass and of very good quality. The weight is cast iron and is original to this clock. The Maker's name, working location, and movement size are die-stamped onto the heavily cast front plate. This movement is also fitted with a Geneva stop-work winding mechanism. The pendulum is supported by a block mounted above the plates of the movement. An auxiliary steel rod extends to the top of the case to fine-tune the regulation. The pendulum rod is made of wood and retains its original gilding. The bob is zinc and covered with a brass facing and retains its original decoration. The motion of this pendulum bob can be viewed through the glass tablet in the lower section of this clock. This tablet has been professionally repainted in the correct Howard format.
This nicely restored example was made circa 1875.
Inventory number TT-142.
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.
