E. Howard & Co., Model No. 59 Vienna. A Special Order Wall. 220056.
According to the available E. Howard Clock records, four individual sizes of this wall clock model were offered. The largest size measures a full 70 inches in length and has a 12-inch diameter dial. The smallest size is 36 inches long and features a 6-inch diameter dial. All models were offered in oak, ash, cherry, or walnut wood. The first example was made and sent to the New York Office on May 15, 1874. Howard had high expectations for this clock. It was dubbed "the new number 5." In truth, the production numbers were fairly low. Twenty-seven years of E. Howard records have survived. In those years, approximately 325 clocks were made. The last Vienna was produced on 5/25/1898. In the 1880's, prices ranged from $25 to $60 respectively. Today, very few model 59s come to market on a bi-annual basis. This is a special example of the form and must have been a custom-ordered example.
This example is one of the two middle sizes measuring 48 inches in length. (The other middle size measures 56 inches long and has a 10-inch diameter dial.) The case wood is black walnut and retains an old, consistent finish. Ebonized details are incorporated into the design of this case. They can be found on the upper and lower moldings and the vertical columns attached to the door. The six wooden finials are decoratively turned. The three lower finials are embellished with carvings. All six finials are decorated with accents of black paint. Birds-eye maple, a wood that exhibits a very unusual and interesting grain pattern, was purposely selected for the backboard. This wood is light in color, pleasing to the overall design. Astute Howard collectors will notice that this example does not have a weight channel like the model pictured in the catalogs. Instead, the backboard is flat and presented on a single plain. The cylindrical shaped drive weight descends in front of this backboard and just behind the pendulum. This lead weight is covered in a thin black walnut wood sleeve and capped at both ends. The pendulum is also specially constructed. The rod is wood, most likely made from seasoned cherry. It is shaped and finished in black paint. The center along its length is gilded. The bob is also lead and is faced with a fine selection of curly maple. The perimeter features a molded edge that is finished with gilding. A brass tie-down is fitted to the bottom of the case to support the pendulum during transport.
The 8-inch diameter dial is painted on zinc. It features Roman-style hour numerals and a closed minute ring. The signature is formatted in script-style lettering. It reads, "E. HOWARD & CO. / BOSTON." An ebonized wooden trim ring nicely frames the outer edge of this dial.
The weight-driven movement is brass and of very good quality. This clock is designed to run for eight days on a full wind. The Maker's name and working location are die-stamped on the front plate.
This fine example was made circa 1875.
Inventory number 220056.
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.
