E. Howard & Co. Model No. 70-14 (14 inch dial) wall clock. School, Office or Bank Clock. 213048.
The E. Howard & Company offered five different sizes of the Model 70 form. This example is not the smallest of the five. It is the second size and is seldom seen. This clock displays the time on a dial that measures a full 14 inches in diameter, and the case measures approximately 36 inches long.
The Model 70 was successfully sold. It was used extensively in the Boston Public School System, in the various Boroughs of Greater New York, and in many other places as the Standard School Clock. It is reported that the United States Government specified it as the "Standard for all Public Buildings." One would also see this model in use in many of the Nations' railroad stations. Some of these included: The Elevated Railroad Stations of New York City, The Pennsylvania Railroad Company, The Central Railroad of New Jersey, the West Shore Railroad of Boston & Albany, and nearly all Railroad Companies throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
This Number 70 is in excellent working condition. The case is constructed in oak and retains a light blonde appearance. This original finish has been nicely rubbed down, and the color is excellent. The proportions of the case are quite pleasing. The 14-inch dial is painted on tin and retains its' original signature, which is formatted in block lettering. The size of this dial makes this a hard-to-find model. In comparison to the 12-inch dial examples of the Model 70, we have had very few opportunities to purchase the 14-inch model. The weight-driven movement is brass and of very good quality. The Maker's name and the numeral "5" are die-stamped into the front plate. The plates are heavily cast and are supported by four brass posts. The escapement is a recoil format. This clock is an excellent timekeeper. The weight is cast iron and bears the number "70." The pendulum rod is made of seasoned cherry. This rod supports a zinc bob which is covered in brass for compensation and decoration. The brass surface still retains its original damascene-decorated surface. The reverse-painted tablet is done in the traditional Howard colors of black, red, and gold. This tablet appears to be original to this clock. It is in good condition, experiencing some minor lifting of the paint. This clock is designed to run for eight days on a full wind and was made circa 1900.
This clock was most recently located in a Boston medical office. It has provided excellent service there for the last 30-plus years.
This fine example is inventory number 213048 and is sold fully serviced and in excellent working order.
inventory number 213048.
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.
