Dating and Identifying E. Howard Company Clocks

The E. Howard Clock Company, founded in 1842 by Edward Howard in Massachusetts, built a reputation for producing some of America’s finest tower, wall, and regulator clocks. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and durability, these clocks remain highly collectible today.

For owners and collectors, dating an E. Howard clock adds historical context and can significantly impact its value. Fortunately, E. Howard kept detailed records, and their serial number system—combined with design and movement clues—can help pinpoint when your clock was made.

1. Understanding the Company’s History

E. Howard’s early years were defined by the production of high-grade weight-driven regulators and large public clocks. Their designs quickly became the standard for railroad stations, schools, and businesses during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.

The company also produced marine clocks, banjo clocks, and smaller wall regulators. Over the decades, subtle design changes and evolving manufacturing techniques created useful dating clues for today’s collectors.

2. Locating the Serial Number

The most direct way to date an E. Howard clock is to locate its serial number. This number is usually found:

• Stamped on the movement plates
• Engraved into the pendulum bob (on certain models)
• Marked inside the case, either on the backboard or a small label

Write the number down exactly as it appears. Even a single incorrect digit can lead to an inaccurate date.

3. Matching Serial Numbers to Production Years

E. Howard clocks follow a general serial sequence that can be matched to specific manufacturing years. While official reference lists are available in horology publications, some general guidelines are:

• Pre-1870’s: Serial numbers under 1,000
• 1870’s–1890’s: 1,000 to 5,000 range
• 1900’s–1920’s: 5,000 to 10,000 range
• Post-1920’s: Higher sequential numbers as production modernized

It’s important to confirm these ranges with other identifiers, since E. Howard occasionally reused serial number formats for certain special orders or limited runs.

4. Look for Movement and Dial Markings

The E. Howard name was typically engraved or stamped directly on the movement. Variations in this marking can indicate production era:

• Early models: Elaborate script “E. Howard & Co.”
• Late 1800’s: Block lettering with “Boston” included
• 20th century models: Simpler sans-serif lettering

Dial designs also evolved. Early regulators often used porcelain or painted metal dials with Roman numerals, while later models sometimes featured Arabic numerals and plainer layouts.

5. Maintain and Restore Your E. Howard Clock Properly

Once you know when your clock was made, the next step is keeping it in top condition. E. Howard clocks were built for accuracy, but decades without service can lead to wear, dirt buildup, and lubrication breakdown.

At Clockworks, we provide:

• Professional cleaning and oiling services for E. Howard and other antique mechanical clocks
• Specialized tools for safe disassembly, inspection, and adjustment
• Replacement parts for weight-driven regulators, wall clocks, and tower clocks

Whether your E. Howard is a delicate banjo clock or a large regulator, we have the expertise and tools to ensure it continues to run as intended.

6. Study the Case Design for Additional Clues

The case style often supports your serial number research:

• Mid-1800’s: Solid walnut or mahogany with hand-carved details
• Late 1800’s: More elaborate moldings and decorative glass tablets
• Early 1900’s: Simpler, cleaner lines in oak or mahogany finishes

Banjo clocks, for example, often feature reverse-painted glass scenes that can be tied to specific production decades.

7. Consult Sales Records and Historical Catalogs

While serial numbers and physical features give strong dating clues, some collectors are lucky enough to find their clock referenced in an original E. Howard sales ledger or catalog.

Historical catalogs—many of which are digitized—allow you to match your clock’s model number, dimensions, and features to a printed listing. If you find your model in a catalog, you can often narrow production down to a specific decade or even a single year.

8. Cross-Reference Multiple Indicators for Accuracy

The best way to confidently date your E. Howard clock is to combine:

• Serial number research
• Movement markings
• Dial and case style analysis
• Historical catalog matches

Using multiple points of evidence helps eliminate guesswork and ensures you arrive at the most accurate production date possible.

Final Thoughts: Preserving E. Howard’s Legacy

E. Howard clocks represent some of the finest American clock making of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Dating your clock not only deepens your appreciation for it, but also helps guide proper restoration and care.

If you need help identifying, cleaning, or repairing your E. Howard clock, visit www.clockworks.com or email clockworks@clockworks.com. Our team offers the tools, parts, and expertise to preserve your timepiece and keep it ticking for generations.

Updated on: 02/10/2025