E. Howard & Co. Model No. 4 Wall clock with an A. Howard stamped movement. EEE-22.
This exceptional E. Howard Model Number 4, crafted by the esteemed E. Howard & Company in Boston, Massachusetts, circa 1860, is a significant piece of history. This unique and early example features a movement that bears the stamp of Albert Howard, adding a personal touch to its historical significance.
Albert Howard was born in Hingham, Massachusetts, on May 20, 1833, the youngest of five children. He was a cousin of Edward Howard's, and at the age of 16, he trained in the clock and balance factory of Howard & Davis. In fact, he spent most of his working career involved with the various Howard Clock Companies. At the age of 22, he is listed in the Massachusetts Census as a clockmaker living in Roxbury. In 1857-58, he is listed in the Boston Directories as a clock and balance maker located at 109 Washington Street. It is interesting to note that this is also the same address that Samuel Curtis and Edward Howard listed as their address during this year. In 1858, he was again listed, but as a "Clockmaker at Edward Howard's." On May 11, 1859, Albert married Susan Kingman in Boston. In 1881, Albert became the general manager of the E. Howard Watch & Clock Company was also appointed to the board of directors. Albert died of apoplexy in his home, located at 13 Brook Avenue in Roxbury, on January 1, 1893.
The Model Number 4 is the second smallest of the five banjo sizes offered by this company, with the case measuring a very manageable 32 inches in length. For comparison, the smallest example in this set is No. 5, which measures 29 inches in length. The No.1, the largest of the five banjo forms, measures a full 50 inches in length.
This case has very pleasing proportions. It is constructed of cherry and retains its original, vibrantly formatted, grain-painted decoration. This faux grain pattern was created using ink to replicate the bold grain patterns typically found in rosewood. The rounded frames are fitted with glass. The two lower panels are decorated or painted from the back in the traditional E. Howard colors of black, gold, and red. The bezel is fitted with clear glass. This protects the paper dial, which measures 8 inches in diameter. The company's name is signed in script. The place location is printed in block lettering.
All Howard-made movements are of excellent quality. This eight-day, weight-driven set of works is not an exception and is considered an accurate timekeeper. The movement is made of brass. Two rectangular-shaped plates are supported by four turned brass posts. Hardened steel shafts support he polished pinions, brass gearing, and recoil escapement. This is a weight-driven movement. The weight is made of cast iron, painted black, and stamped with the number 4. The pendulum rod is made of wood, painted black, and supports a bass-faced lead bob. This bob is decorated with a series of engraved concentric rings and a damascene design. This is a very good bob. The front plate of the movement is die-stamped in the upper left corner with the inscription "A. HOWARD / BOSTON."
This example was made circa 1860.
Inventory number EEE-22.
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.
