Are Howard Pocket Watches Worth Any Money Nowadays?

August 20, 2025 - Howard pocket watches, originally produced by E. Howard & Co. in the mid-19th century, are among the most respected and collectible American timepieces. Known for their exceptional quality, limited production runs, and historical significance, Howard watches are highly sought after by seasoned collectors and horologists. Is there a market for Howard pocket watches? One aspect of Howard collecting that many people are unaware of is the potential monetary value of these finely crafted watches. The market for Howard pocket watches is strong, particularly for early E. Howard & Co. models made in Boston before the company’s name and rights were sold to Keystone Watch Case Company in the early 1900s. Both original and Keystone Howards are collectible, though the earlier Boston models carry premium value.

The Market For Howard Pocket Watches

The market for Howard pocket watches includes high-end collectors, American watch historians, and luxury antique dealers. Demand is especially high for watches in "Mint Condition," with original dials, cases, and signed movements. Early serial-numbered examples, solid gold cases, and uncommon movement grades all increase desirability. Howard watches are often sold at specialized auctions, high-end watch shows, and through online platforms such as eBay and collector forums.

Factors Affecting Price

Maker and production period play a key role in determining value—E. Howard & Co. (Boston) models generally fetch more than Keystone Howard watches. Condition and originality are crucial: watches with untouched dials, functional movements, and original cases will command higher prices. Movement quality also matters—Howard was known for low production, hand-finished movements, so watches with 15–23 jewels and advanced features (like micrometer regulators) are especially valuable. Case material (particularly 14K or 18K gold) significantly affects the final price.

Buying and Selling Howard Pocket Watches

For those buying or selling Howard pocket watches, identifying whether the watch is an early Boston-made model or a Keystone-produced watch is critical. Movement and case serial numbers help date and authenticate the watch. Collectors expect detailed listings with sharp images of the dial, movement, and case markings. Original boxes or provenance documentation also add value. These watches are often traded through private sales, auction houses, and elite watch dealer networks.

Who Buys Howard Pocket Watches Today?

Today’s buyers include advanced watch collectors, American horology scholars, and those inheriting fine family heirlooms. Serious collectors are drawn to Howard for its superior finishing and early innovation. Demand remains strong among those seeking museum-quality pieces or rare movement grades, and many investors in the luxury watch market now view Howard pocket watches as underappreciated gems. Not all Howard pocket watches have monetary value, but some remain highly sought after—especially early E. Howard & Co. watches, 19th-century complications, and examples in solid gold cases.

Top 5 Howard Pocket Watches to Hunt For

1. E. Howard & Co. Series I or II (Boston Era) – Rare, early production watches valued at $4,000–$7,000.


2. Howard Series VII or VIII Railroad Grade – Precision models with 17–23 jewels, valued at $1,200–$4,000.


3. Keystone Howard 23 Jewel Railroad Watch – Popular high-grade model, valued at $800–$2,000.


4. E. Howard Chronometer – Designed to maintain a high level of accuracy, often valued $500+.


5. Solid Gold Case Howard Watches (Various Grades) – Elegant presentation pieces, valued at $1,500–$4,000 depending on case material and condition.

Learn More About The Value of Your Howard Pocket Watch

iGuide’s appraisal service is a good way to discover the value of your Howard pocket watch. Learn more.