EP0600389B1 - Watch case with a hollow middle - Google Patents

Watch case with a hollow middle Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0600389B1
EP0600389B1 EP93119086A EP93119086A EP0600389B1 EP 0600389 B1 EP0600389 B1 EP 0600389B1 EP 93119086 A EP93119086 A EP 93119086A EP 93119086 A EP93119086 A EP 93119086A EP 0600389 B1 EP0600389 B1 EP 0600389B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
segments
watch case
fact
case according
caseband
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP93119086A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0600389A1 (en
Inventor
Marc-André Miche
Aimé Loichot
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Swatch Group Management Services AG
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Swatch Group Management Services AG
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Publication of EP0600389A1 publication Critical patent/EP0600389A1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B37/00—Cases
    • G04B37/22—Materials or processes of manufacturing pocket watch or wrist watch cases
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B37/00—Cases
    • G04B37/0008—Cases for pocket watches and wrist watches
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B37/00—Cases
    • G04B37/04—Mounting the clockwork in the case; Shock absorbing mountings
    • G04B37/05—Fixed mountings for pocket or wrist watches

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a watch case comprising a middle-bezel provided with a recess with a substantially curved profile opening towards the inside of the case, a crystal and a bottom for containing a movement surmounted by a dial and a casing circle arranged between the movement and the middle part.
  • the document CH-A-664 251 describes a gold watch case where the movement is fixed to the middle-bezel which is hollowed out internally.
  • This fixing is carried out by means of a casing piece which is centered from the inside.
  • an axial projection of the casing piece is fitted with gentle friction around a corresponding projection, which is integral with the box and which consists of a part of a flange, of which another part is pinched between an internal lip of the middle-bezel and the glass.
  • the axial fixing of the casing part is ensured by a lock which bears against a shoulder of the middle part and keeps the casing part pressed under the lip.
  • This middle part comprises first and second cylindrical bearing surfaces cooperating respectively with a crystal and a bottom.
  • Three studs integral with the middle part are arranged in the space defined by the arch-shaped recess.
  • Each of the studs carries a projection extending in the direction of the movement carried by the box, said projection carrying a beat upper on which rests a flange against which the glass rests and a lower battue on which rests a casing circle against which the bottom rests.
  • the hollowed-out middle parts described in the documents cited above are fragile in the sense that they are sensitive to lateral shocks applied to the watch, the extreme thinness of the wall of the middle part explaining that the latter can be dented at the slightest blow on she.
  • This circle fulfills two functions in the case of document FR-A-571,054, namely that of the casing circle, support for the movement and connection of the latter with the middle part, and that of reinforcement of the middle part to make it resistant to shocks, since behind the made middle part in thin gold, there is said circle which makes the middle part difficult push-in and only this last function in the case of document CH-A-79 203. It will be understood that incidentally this circle will weigh down the watch.
  • the reinforcement circle of the middle part is in one piece and thus requires a watch case structure comprising two elements in arcs of a circle articulated one on the other by a hinge. invisible comprising at each of the ends of these elements opposite the hinge, hollow protruding parts which straighten up to form when they are brought close to each other a hollow cylinder on which is screwed a pendant.
  • the reinforcing circle is composed of several segments which do not have a casing-ring function and are held in place in the middle by means of a bowl frustoconical pressed against the complementary internal face of the latter by a movement-carrying circle also having a frustoconical shape, this movement-carrying circle being screwed to the middle part.
  • the subject of the present invention is a watch case comprising a middle-bezel provided with a recess with a substantially curved profile opening towards the inside of the case, a crystal and a bottom for containing a movement surmounted by a dial and a casing circle arranged between the movement and the middle, characterized in that the casing circle is composed of at least four juxtaposed segments and partially engaged in the recess of the middle to cover at least 85% of its periphery, the outer contour of said segments being shaped to be in close contact with said substantially curved profile, that means are used to hold in place said segments in said recess and that said holding means extend in a groove provided in said segments.
  • the watch case includes a bezel-bezel 11 provided with a recess 26 with a substantially curved profile 8 in the form of a vault opening towards the inside of the case.
  • the box is completed by a crystal 16 and a bottom 12 to contain a movement 13 surmounted by a dial 14.
  • a casing ring 10 is arranged between the movement 13 and the middle part 11. Needles 15 take place between the dial 14 and the glass 16, this spacing being well defined by a flange 18.
  • the sealing of the glass 16 relative to the middle part 11 is ensured by a cylindrical seal 17 which rests on a drop 25 formed in the top of the bezel forming an integral part of the middle part 11.
  • the base 12 is fixed to the notch on the middle part 11, its sealing being ensured by a gasket 19. It will be noted that this base could be made in one piece with the middle part and thus form a box monohull.
  • the movement 13 is introduced from the top of the middle part and bears the thread 30 with which it is provided on the shoulder 7 of the casing ring 10.
  • the movement 13 is made integral with the circle 10 by means of fixing flanges, one of which only 22 is visible in FIG. 3.
  • a tube 20 passes through the middle part 11, a tube in which the movement time-setting rod takes place (not shown).
  • a reinforcement 21 of the middle has been provided, at the place of the passage of this tube, materialized by an addition of added material or made in one piece with said middle part. This reinforcement 21 is also visible in the plan views of FIGS. 1, 6 and 8.
  • the hollowed-out middle part 11 can be produced by turning by means of cutters or by stamping and upsetting, by means of a rotary press, according to the method described in the document EP-A-0 378 125 cited above, this method being chosen especially for large production series which also allows the forming of the horns 23.
  • it is sought to obtain a very thin wall by saving precious material.
  • such a slim build can hardly withstand the shocks applied to it in normal wear and lashes quickly.
  • the weight of the watch makes one doubt that its case is made of precious metal since its middle is hollowed out with the obvious aim of selling the product cheaper.
  • the essential characteristic of the present invention which consists in using a casing ring which almost completely fills the recess of the middle part by closely matching its internal profile.
  • the casing ring made of brass, for example, provides a solution to the problem of weight, the problem of impact resistance being resolved by intimate contact of the circle with the middle part around the latter.
  • the casing circle is composed of at least four segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 as seen in Figures 1, 6 and 8. These segments are juxtaposed and partially engaged in the recess 26 of the middle and cover at least 85% of its circumference. As can be seen particularly clearly in FIGS.
  • each segment is shaped to be in close contact with the substantially curved profile 8 which the inside of the middle part has.
  • the outer contour 9 of each segment is shaped to be in close contact with the substantially curved profile 8 which the inside of the middle part has.
  • Figure 5 shows how the segments are mounted in the middle.
  • the segments thus juxtaposed are then made to slide so that the empty parts situated to the right and to the left of the tube 20 are approximately equal length. If it is desired that at least 85% of the periphery of the recess 26 be covered by the segments, it can be shown that at least four segments are necessary. Once the geometric balance is reached with respect to the tube, we will fix the segments to hold them in place which facilitates the subsequent mounting of the movement.
  • Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the invention where the means for holding in place the segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 consist of an elastic ring 5 which is disposed in the groove 6 formed in each segment.
  • the means for holding in place the segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 consist of an elastic ring 5 which is disposed in the groove 6 formed in each segment.
  • two holes 24 are provided which allow it to be grasped with a special pliers. Note that the ring 5 is seen in section in Figures 2, 3 and 4.
  • Figures 6 and 7 show a second embodiment of the invention where the means for holding in place the segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 consist of an elastic jumper 27.
  • the top 32 of the jumper 27 is disposed in the grooves 6 already described, while the legs 33 are introduced into slots 34 formed towards the ends of the segments.
  • FIG. 6 shows that three jumpers 27 allow the four segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 to be connected and held in place. The bottom of the slot 34 can be observed in FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 8 shows that each of the flanges 28 is screwed into the respective groove 6 of the segments 1 and 4 by means of screws 29.

Description

La présente invention est relative à une boîte de montre comportant une carrure-lunette pourvue d'un évidement à profil sensiblement cintré s'ouvrant vers l'intérieur de la boîte, une glace et un fond pour contenir un mouvement surmonté d'un cadran et un cercle d'encageage disposé entre le mouvement et la carrure.The present invention relates to a watch case comprising a middle-bezel provided with a recess with a substantially curved profile opening towards the inside of the case, a crystal and a bottom for containing a movement surmounted by a dial and a casing circle arranged between the movement and the middle part.

On connaît des boîtes de montre réalisées de préférence en métal précieux (or ou platine) dont la carrure est évidée intérieurement pour faire une économie substantielle de matière précieuse et autoriser ainsi un prix de vente moins élevé qu'il ne serait si cette carrure était massive.There are known watch cases preferably made of precious metal (gold or platinum), the middle of which is hollowed out internally to make a substantial saving of precious material and thus authorize a lower selling price than it would be if this middle was massive. .

Le document CH-A-664 251 décrit une boîte de montre en or où le mouvement est fixé à la carrure-lunette qui est évidée intérieurement. Cette fixation est réalisée par l'intermédiaire d'une pièce d'encageage qui est centrée par l'intérieur. A cet effet, une saillie axiale de la pièce d'encageage est emboîtée à frottement doux autour d'une saillie correspondante, qui est solidaire de la boîte et qui est constituée par une partie d'un réhaut, dont une autre partie est pincée entre une lèvre interne de la carrure-lunette et le verre. La fixation axiale de la pièce d'encageage est assurée par un verrou qui prend appui contre un épaulement de la carrure et maintient la pièce d'encageage appuyée sous la lèvre.The document CH-A-664 251 describes a gold watch case where the movement is fixed to the middle-bezel which is hollowed out internally. This fixing is carried out by means of a casing piece which is centered from the inside. To this end, an axial projection of the casing piece is fitted with gentle friction around a corresponding projection, which is integral with the box and which consists of a part of a flange, of which another part is pinched between an internal lip of the middle-bezel and the glass. The axial fixing of the casing part is ensured by a lock which bears against a shoulder of the middle part and keeps the casing part pressed under the lip.

Le document EP-A-0 379 974 (= US-A-4 970 708) décrit aussi une boîte de montre comportant une carrure évidée en forme de voûte. Cette carrure comporte des première et seconde surfaces d'appui cylindriques coopérant respectivement avec une glace et un fond. Trois plots solidaires de la carrure sont disposés dans l'espace défini par l'évidement en forme de voûte. Chacun des plots porte une saillie s'étendant en direction du mouvement porté par la boîte, ladite saillie portant une battue supérieure sur laquelle repose un réhaut contre lequel s'appuie la glace et une battue inférieure sur laquelle repose un cercle d'encageage contre lequel s'appuie le fond.Document EP-A-0 379 974 (= US-A-4 970 708) also describes a watch case comprising a hollowed-out middle in the shape of an arch. This middle part comprises first and second cylindrical bearing surfaces cooperating respectively with a crystal and a bottom. Three studs integral with the middle part are arranged in the space defined by the arch-shaped recess. Each of the studs carries a projection extending in the direction of the movement carried by the box, said projection carrying a beat upper on which rests a flange against which the glass rests and a lower battue on which rests a casing circle against which the bottom rests.

Les carrures évidées décrites dans les documents cités ci-dessus sont fragiles en ce sens qu'elles sont sensibles aux chocs latéraux appliqués sur la montre, la minceur extrême de la paroi de la carrure expliquant que cette dernière peut être cabossée au moindre coup porté sur elle.The hollowed-out middle parts described in the documents cited above are fragile in the sense that they are sensitive to lateral shocks applied to the watch, the extreme thinness of the wall of the middle part explaining that the latter can be dented at the slightest blow on she.

On a amélioré la résistance au choc en disposant des nervures à l'intérieur de la carrure, comme à l'intérieur du fond, comme cela est visible dans le document EP-A-0 378 125 (= US-A-4 995 023). Si des améliorations ont été apportées quant à la déformation de la carrure due à la traction du bracelet, ces améliorations sont cependant minimes quant à la résistance au choc, cette carrure étant facilement enfonçable à cause de sa très faible épaisseur (de l'ordre de 0,15 mm).The impact resistance has been improved by having ribs inside the middle, as inside the back, as can be seen in document EP-A-0 378 125 (= US-A-4 995 023 ). If improvements have been made as regards the deformation of the middle due to the pulling of the bracelet, these improvements are however minimal as regards the impact resistance, this middle being easily inserted because of its very thin thickness (of the order of 0.15 mm).

On observera par ailleurs que les boîtes réalisées selon les brevets cités ci-dessus donnent une telle impression de légèreté, que l'on peut mettre en doute le fait qu'elles sont réalisées en or. Comme il n'est pas autorisé d'ajouter des poids qui ne seraient présents que dans le seul but de faire croire à une présence d'or massif sans fonction ni utilité réelle à la constitution où à la marche de la montre, la présente invention imagine de remplir presque entièrement l'évidement de la carrure faite en or par un cercle fait de préférence en laiton comme cela est décrit respectivement dans les documents CH-A-79 203 et FR-A-571 054. Ce cercle remplit deux fonctions dans le cas du document FR-A-571 054 à savoir celui du cercle d'encageage, support du mouvement et liaison de ce dernier avec la carrure, et celui de renforcement de la carrure pour la rendre résistante aux chocs, puisque derrière la carrure faite en or mince, se trouve ledit cercle qui rend la carrure difficilement enfonçable et seulement cette dernière fonction dans le cas du document CH-A-79 203. On comprendra qu'accessoirement ce cercle alourdira la montre.It will also be observed that the boxes produced according to the patents cited above give such an impression of lightness, that one can doubt that they are made of gold. As it is not authorized to add weights which would be present only for the sole purpose of making believe in a presence of solid gold without real function or utility in the constitution or in the running of the watch, the present invention imagine filling the recess of the middle part made of gold almost entirely with a circle preferably made of brass as described in documents CH-A-79 203 and FR-A-571 054 respectively. This circle fulfills two functions in the case of document FR-A-571,054, namely that of the casing circle, support for the movement and connection of the latter with the middle part, and that of reinforcement of the middle part to make it resistant to shocks, since behind the made middle part in thin gold, there is said circle which makes the middle part difficult push-in and only this last function in the case of document CH-A-79 203. It will be understood that incidentally this circle will weigh down the watch.

Toutefois, selon le document FR-A-571 054 le cercle de renforcement de la carrure est en une seule pièce et nécessite ainsi une structure de boîte de montre comprenant deux éléments en arcs de cercle articulés l'un sur l'autre par une charnière invisible comprenant à chacune des extrémités de ces éléments opposées à la charnière, des parties en saillies creusées qui se redressent pour former quand elles sont rapprochées l'une de l'autre un cylindre creux sur lequel est vissé un pendant.However, according to document FR-A-571,054, the reinforcement circle of the middle part is in one piece and thus requires a watch case structure comprising two elements in arcs of a circle articulated one on the other by a hinge. invisible comprising at each of the ends of these elements opposite the hinge, hollow protruding parts which straighten up to form when they are brought close to each other a hollow cylinder on which is screwed a pendant.

Quant à la boîte décrite dans le document CH-A-79 203, le cercle de renfort est composé de plusieurs segments qui n'ont pas de fonction de cercle d'encageage et sont maintenus en place dans la carrure au moyen d'une cuvette tronconique plaquée contre la face intérieure complémentaire de ces derniers par un cercle porte-mouvement ayant également une forme tronconique, ce cercle porte mouvement étant vissé à la carrure.As for the box described in document CH-A-79 203, the reinforcing circle is composed of several segments which do not have a casing-ring function and are held in place in the middle by means of a bowl frustoconical pressed against the complementary internal face of the latter by a movement-carrying circle also having a frustoconical shape, this movement-carrying circle being screwed to the middle part.

Aussi, la présente invention a pour objet une boîte de montre comportant une carrure-lunette pourvue d'un évidement à profil sensiblement cintré s'ouvrant vers l'intérieur de la boîte, une glace et un fond pour contenir un mouvement surmonté d'un cadran et un cercle d'encageage disposé entre le mouvement et la carrure, caractérisée par le fait que le cercle d'encageage est composé d'au moins quatre segments juxtaposés et engagés partiellement dans l'évidement de la carrure pour recouvrir au moins 85 % de son pourtour, le contour extérieur desdits segments étant conformé pour être en contact étroit avec ledit profil sensiblement cintré, que des moyens sont mis en oeuvre pour maintenir en place lesdits segments dans ledit évidement et que lesdits moyens de maintien s'étendent dans une rainure ménagée dans lesdits segments.Also, the subject of the present invention is a watch case comprising a middle-bezel provided with a recess with a substantially curved profile opening towards the inside of the case, a crystal and a bottom for containing a movement surmounted by a dial and a casing circle arranged between the movement and the middle, characterized in that the casing circle is composed of at least four juxtaposed segments and partially engaged in the recess of the middle to cover at least 85% of its periphery, the outer contour of said segments being shaped to be in close contact with said substantially curved profile, that means are used to hold in place said segments in said recess and that said holding means extend in a groove provided in said segments.

L'invention va être expliquée maintenant au moyen d'exemples illustrés par le dessin dans lequel :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en plan de la carrure selon un premier mode d'exécution de l'invention, carrure dans laquelle se trouvent logés quatre segments composant un cercle d'encageage, retenus par un anneau élastique,
  • la figure 2 est une coupe selon la ligne II-II de la figure 1,
  • la figure 3 est une coupe de la figure 1 à l'endroit où l'on trouve une des brides de fixation du mouvement sur le cercle,
  • la figure 4 est une coupe selon la ligne IV-IV de la figure 1,
  • la figure 5 montre comment sont montés les segments composant le cercle d'engageage dans la carrure-lunette,
  • la figure 6 est une vue en plan de la carrure selon un deuxième mode d'exécution de l'invention, carrure dans laquelle se trouvent logés quatre segments composant un cercle d'engageage, retenus l'un à la suite de l'autre par des cavaliers élastiques,
  • la figure 7 est une coupe selon la ligne VII-VII de la figure 6,
  • la figure 8 est une vue en plan de la carrure selon un troisième mode d'exécution de l'invention, carrure dans laquelle se trouvent logés quatre segments composant un cercle d'encageage, retenus par deux brides appuyées de part et d'autre sur un renfort de tube traversant la carrure,
  • la figure 9 est une coupe selon la ligne IX-IX de la figure 8.
The invention will now be explained by means of examples illustrated by the drawing in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a plan view of the middle part according to a first embodiment of the invention, middle part in which are housed four segments making up a casing circle, retained by an elastic ring,
  • FIG. 2 is a section along the line II-II in FIG. 1,
  • FIG. 3 is a section of FIG. 1 at the location where one of the movement fixing flanges is found on the circle,
  • FIG. 4 is a section along the line IV-IV of FIG. 1,
  • FIG. 5 shows how the segments making up the engagement circle are mounted in the middle part,
  • FIG. 6 is a plan view of the middle part according to a second embodiment of the invention, middle part in which are housed four segments making up a engagement circle, retained one after the other by elastic jumpers,
  • FIG. 7 is a section along line VII-VII of FIG. 6,
  • Figure 8 is a plan view of the middle part according to a third embodiment of the invention, middle part in which are housed four segments making up a casing circle, retained by two flanges supported on both sides on a tube reinforcement passing through the middle,
  • FIG. 9 is a section on the line IX-IX in FIG. 8.

Comme on le voit bien sur les figures 2 à 4, la boîte de montre comporte une carrure-lunette 11 pourvue d'un évidement 26 à profil sensiblement cintré 8 en forme de voûte s'ouvrant vers l'intérieur de la boîte. La boîte est complétée par une glace 16 et un fond 12 pour contenir un mouvement 13 surmonté d'un cadran 14. Un cercle d'encageage 10 est disposé entre le mouvement 13 et la carrure 11. Des aiguilles 15 prennent place entre le cadran 14 et la glace 16, cet espacement étant bien défini par un réhaut 18. L'étanchéité de la glace 16 par rapport à la carrure 11 est assurée par un joint cylindrique 17 qui s'appuie sur une retombée 25 formée dans le haut de la lunette faisant partie intégrante de la carrure 11. Le fond 12 est fixé à cran sur la carrure 11, son étanchéité étant assurée par une garniture 19. On notera que ce fond pourrait être fait d'une seule pièce avec la carrure et former ainsi une boîte monocoque. Le mouvement 13 est introduit par le haut de la carrure et vient appuyer le filet 30 dont il est pourvu sur l'épaulement 7 du cercle d'encageage 10. Le mouvement 13 est rendu solidaire du cercle 10 au moyen de brides de fixation dont une seule 22 est visible sur la figure 3. Comme on le voit en figure 2, un tube 20 traverse la carrure 11, tube dans lequel prend place la tige de mise à l'heure du mouvement (non-représentée). Comme la paroi de la carrure est très mince (de l'ordre de 0,2 mm), il a été prévu, à l'endroit du passage de ce tube, un renfort 21 de la carrure matérialisé par un apport de matière rapporté ou fait d'une pièce avec ladite carrure. Ce renfort 21 est aussi visible dans les vues en plan des figures 1, 6 et 8.As can be clearly seen in FIGS. 2 to 4, the watch case includes a bezel-bezel 11 provided with a recess 26 with a substantially curved profile 8 in the form of a vault opening towards the inside of the case. The box is completed by a crystal 16 and a bottom 12 to contain a movement 13 surmounted by a dial 14. A casing ring 10 is arranged between the movement 13 and the middle part 11. Needles 15 take place between the dial 14 and the glass 16, this spacing being well defined by a flange 18. The sealing of the glass 16 relative to the middle part 11 is ensured by a cylindrical seal 17 which rests on a drop 25 formed in the top of the bezel forming an integral part of the middle part 11. The base 12 is fixed to the notch on the middle part 11, its sealing being ensured by a gasket 19. It will be noted that this base could be made in one piece with the middle part and thus form a box monohull. The movement 13 is introduced from the top of the middle part and bears the thread 30 with which it is provided on the shoulder 7 of the casing ring 10. The movement 13 is made integral with the circle 10 by means of fixing flanges, one of which only 22 is visible in FIG. 3. As can be seen in FIG. 2, a tube 20 passes through the middle part 11, a tube in which the movement time-setting rod takes place (not shown). As the wall of the middle is very thin (of the order of 0.2 mm), a reinforcement 21 of the middle has been provided, at the place of the passage of this tube, materialized by an addition of added material or made in one piece with said middle part. This reinforcement 21 is also visible in the plan views of FIGS. 1, 6 and 8.

La carrure évidée 11 peut être réalisée par tournage au moyen de fraises de forme ou par emboutissage et refoulage, au moyen d'une presse rotative, selon le procédé décrit dans le document EP-A-0 378 125 cité plus haut, ce procédé étant choisi surtout pour les grandes séries de fabrication qui permet de surcroît le formage des cornes 23. Dans un cas comme dans l'autre on cherche à obtenir une paroi très mince par mesure d'économie de matière précieuse. Cependant, comme on l'a mentionné plus haut, une carrure aussi mince supporte fort mal les chocs qui lui sont appliqués au porter normal et se cabosse rapidement. Egalement, le poids de la montre fait douter que sa boîte est faite en métal précieux puisque sa carrure est évidée dans le but évident de vendre le produit moins cher.The hollowed-out middle part 11 can be produced by turning by means of cutters or by stamping and upsetting, by means of a rotary press, according to the method described in the document EP-A-0 378 125 cited above, this method being chosen especially for large production series which also allows the forming of the horns 23. In in one case as in the other, it is sought to obtain a very thin wall by saving precious material. However, as mentioned above, such a slim build can hardly withstand the shocks applied to it in normal wear and lashes quickly. Also, the weight of the watch makes one doubt that its case is made of precious metal since its middle is hollowed out with the obvious aim of selling the product cheaper.

Des solutions sont apportées à ces problèmes par la caractéristique essentielle de la présente invention qui consiste à utiliser un cercle d'encageage qui remplit presque entièrement l'évidement de la carrure en épousant étroitement son profil intérieur. Le cercle d'encageage fait en laiton par exemple, apporte une solution au problème du poids, le problème de résistance aux chocs étant résolu par un contact intime du cercle avec la carrure dans le pourtour de cette dernière. Pour parvenir à ce but, le cercle d'encageage est composé d'au moins quatre segments 1, 2, 3 et 4 comme on le voit sur les figures 1, 6 et 8. Ces segments sont juxtaposés et engagés partiellement dans l'évidement 26 de la carrure et recouvrent au moins le 85% de son pourtour. Comme on le voit particulièrement bien sur les figures 3, 4, 7 et 9 le contour extérieur 9 de chaque segment est conformé pour être en contact étroit avec le profil 8 sensiblement cintré que présente l'intérieur de la carrure 11. Pour maintenir en place ces segments dans l'évidement, même avant la pose du mouvement, on a recours à des moyens différents suivant le mode d'exécution choisi. Trois systèmes différents vont être expliqués plus bas qui utilisent tous une rainure 6 à profil sensiblement rectangulaire pratiquée dans chaque segment.Solutions are provided to these problems by the essential characteristic of the present invention which consists in using a casing ring which almost completely fills the recess of the middle part by closely matching its internal profile. The casing ring made of brass, for example, provides a solution to the problem of weight, the problem of impact resistance being resolved by intimate contact of the circle with the middle part around the latter. To achieve this goal, the casing circle is composed of at least four segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 as seen in Figures 1, 6 and 8. These segments are juxtaposed and partially engaged in the recess 26 of the middle and cover at least 85% of its circumference. As can be seen particularly clearly in FIGS. 3, 4, 7 and 9, the outer contour 9 of each segment is shaped to be in close contact with the substantially curved profile 8 which the inside of the middle part has. To hold in place these segments in the recess, even before the movement is applied, use is made of different means depending on the mode of execution chosen. Three different systems will be explained below which all use a groove 6 with a substantially rectangular profile made in each segment.

La figure 5 indique comment sont montés les segments dans la carrure. On commence par introduire le premier segment 1 dans l'évidement 26 en appuyant son extrémité 31 contre le renfort 21 du tube 20. On poursuit le montage des segments 2 et 3 de la même façon. Le dernier segment 4 est introduit finalement dans la carrure selon la direction de la flèche A. On fait alors glisser les segments ainsi juxtaposés de façon à ce que les parties vides situées à droite et à gauche du tube 20 soient à peu près d'égale longueur. Si l'on désire qu'au moins le 85% de la périphérie de l'évidement 26 soit recouvert par les segments, on peut montrer qu'au moins quatre segments sont nécessaires. Une fois l'équilibre géométrique atteint par rapport au tube, on va fixer les segments pour les maintenir en place ce qui facilite le montage subséquent du mouvement.Figure 5 shows how the segments are mounted in the middle. We start by introducing the first segment 1 into the recess 26 by pressing its end 31 against the reinforcement 21 of the tube 20. We continue to mount the segments 2 and 3 in the same way. The last segment 4 is finally introduced into the middle in the direction of the arrow A. The segments thus juxtaposed are then made to slide so that the empty parts situated to the right and to the left of the tube 20 are approximately equal length. If it is desired that at least 85% of the periphery of the recess 26 be covered by the segments, it can be shown that at least four segments are necessary. Once the geometric balance is reached with respect to the tube, we will fix the segments to hold them in place which facilitates the subsequent mounting of the movement.

La figure 1 montre un premier mode d'exécution de l'invention où les moyens de maintien en place des segments 1, 2, 3 et 4 consistent en un anneau élastique 5 qu'on dispose dans la rainure 6 pratiquée dans chaque segment. Pour faciliter la préhension ou la dépose de l'anneau, on a prévu deux trous 24 qui permettent de le saisir avec une pince spéciale. A noter que l'anneau 5 est vu en coupe dans les figures 2, 3 et 4.Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the invention where the means for holding in place the segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 consist of an elastic ring 5 which is disposed in the groove 6 formed in each segment. To facilitate gripping or removing the ring, two holes 24 are provided which allow it to be grasped with a special pliers. Note that the ring 5 is seen in section in Figures 2, 3 and 4.

Les figures 6 et 7 montrent un deuxième mode d'exécution de l'invention où les moyens de maintien en place des segments 1, 2, 3 et 4 consistent en un cavalier élastique 27. Le haut 32 du cavalier 27 est disposé dans les rainures 6 déjà décrites, alors que les jambes 33 sont introduites dans des fentes 34 pratiquées vers les extrémités des segments. La figure 6 montre que trois cavaliers 27 permettent de relier et maintenir en place les quatre segments 1, 2, 3 et 4. On peut observer sur la figure 7 le fond de la fente 34.Figures 6 and 7 show a second embodiment of the invention where the means for holding in place the segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 consist of an elastic jumper 27. The top 32 of the jumper 27 is disposed in the grooves 6 already described, while the legs 33 are introduced into slots 34 formed towards the ends of the segments. FIG. 6 shows that three jumpers 27 allow the four segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 to be connected and held in place. The bottom of the slot 34 can be observed in FIG. 7.

Les figures 8 et 9 montrent enfin un troisième mode d'exécution de l'invention où les moyens de maintien des segments 1, 2, 3 et 4 consistent en deux brides 28 appuyant chacune sur le renfort 21 du tube 20 dont il a été question plus haut. La figure 8 montre que chacune des brides 28 est vissée dans la rainure 6 respective des segments 1 et 4 au moyen de vis 29.Figures 8 and 9 finally show a third embodiment of the invention where the means for holding the segments 1, 2, 3 and 4 consist of two flanges 28 each pressing on the reinforcement 21 of the tube 20 which has been discussed upper. FIG. 8 shows that each of the flanges 28 is screwed into the respective groove 6 of the segments 1 and 4 by means of screws 29.

Tous les exemples cités ci-dessus font état d'une boîte faite en deux pièces soit carrure-lunette et fond. On a suggéré que cette boîte pourrait être faite en une seule pièce. On ajoutera pour être complet, que cette boîte pourrait être faite en trois pièces, la carrure étant séparée de la lunette, et un fond séparé. On comprendra que les caractéristiques particulières de la présente invention peuvent être appliquées aussi bien à l'une ou à l'autre de ces exécutions.All the examples cited above show a box made in two parts, ie the case-bezel and the back. It has been suggested that this box could be made in one piece. We will add to be complete, that this box could be made in three pieces, the middle being separated from the bezel, and a separate bottom. It will be understood that the particular features of the present invention can be applied to either of these embodiments.

Claims (9)

  1. Watch case including a caseband-bezel (11) provided with a hollow (26) having a substantially arched profile (8) opening out towards the interior of the case, a crystal (16) and a back cover (12) for retaining a movement (13) surmounted by a dial (14) and a casing ring (10) arranged between the movement and the caseband, characterized by the fact that the casing ring is made up from at least four juxtaposed segments (1, 2, 3, 4) partially engaged within the caseband hollow in order to overlay at least 85% of its periphery, the outer contour (9) of said segments (1, 2, 3, 4) being formed so as to be in close contact with said substantially arched profile (8), that means (5, 27, 28) is applied so as to maintain said segments (1, 2, 3, 4) in place within said hollow and that said maintaining means (5, 27, 28) extends in a groove (6) provided in said segments (1, 2, 3, 4).
  2. Watch case according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that said groove (6) has a substantially rectangular profile and is provided in the portion of said segments which is not engaged within the hollow.
  3. Watch case according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that the portion of said segments which is not engaged within the hollow includes a shoulder (7) on which the movement (13) is supported.
  4. Watch case according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by the fact that said means for maintaining the segments in place consists of an elastic ring (5) arranged in said grooves (6).
  5. Watch case according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by the fact that said means for maintaining (the segments) in place consists of an elastic jumper link (27) arranged in said grooves and coupling together two juxtaposed segments (1, 2).
  6. Watch case according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by the fact that said means for maintaining the segments in place consists of two clamps (28) each bearing on a tube (20) stiffening piece (21) exhibited by the caseband (11), each of the clamps being screwed (29) into the groove (6) of one of said segments (1, 4).
  7. Watch case according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the segments (1, 2, 3, 4) making up the casing ring (10) are made of brass.
  8. Watch case according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the caseband-bezel (11) and the back cover (12) are of gold.
  9. Watch case according to claim 8, characterized by the fact that the caseband-bezel (11) and the back cover (12) are formed in one single piece.
EP93119086A 1992-12-02 1993-11-26 Watch case with a hollow middle Expired - Lifetime EP0600389B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH3696/92A CH684861B5 (en) 1992-12-02 1992-12-02 watchcase to middle recessed.
CH3696/92 1992-12-02

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0600389A1 EP0600389A1 (en) 1994-06-08
EP0600389B1 true EP0600389B1 (en) 1997-03-12

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP93119086A Expired - Lifetime EP0600389B1 (en) 1992-12-02 1993-11-26 Watch case with a hollow middle

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US (1) US5363350A (en)
EP (1) EP0600389B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3310076B2 (en)
CH (1) CH684861B5 (en)
DE (1) DE69308759T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2101200T3 (en)
HK (1) HK1007810A1 (en)
SG (1) SG43172A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE69522912D1 (en) * 1995-08-30 2001-10-31 Isa Swiss S A Watch case with hollowed-out case part and case adjustment means as well as a watch equipped with such a case
EP0762240A1 (en) * 1995-08-30 1997-03-12 Fabrique D'ebauches De Sonceboz S.A. Watch case with a recessed case and fitting means and watch provided with such a case
EP1065576B1 (en) * 1999-06-29 2008-04-16 The Swatch Group Management Services AG Chronograph watch made of precious metal and with a hollow bezel middle
EP1182522A1 (en) * 2000-08-22 2002-02-27 Conseils et Manufactures VLG SA Assembling device
JP2003344562A (en) * 2002-05-30 2003-12-03 Seiko Instruments Inc Wristwatch
JP4251175B2 (en) * 2005-01-26 2009-04-08 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Watch movement holding structure and watch
US8689446B2 (en) 2011-02-02 2014-04-08 Richemont International S.A. Method for producing a watch case middle of reduced weight
USD766740S1 (en) * 2015-02-18 2016-09-20 Longines Watch Co., Francillon Ltd. Watchcase
CH712210B1 (en) * 2016-03-14 2020-02-14 Nivarox Sa Method of manufacturing a clock display component.
EP3985450A1 (en) * 2020-10-16 2022-04-20 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Device for locking a movement of a clock piece

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH79203A (en) * 1918-10-03 1918-10-16 Boites La Centrale Fab De Watch box
FR571054A (en) * 1923-09-26 1924-05-12 Reinforced watch case
CH131399A (en) * 1928-03-07 1929-02-15 Safir Gabus Freres Usines Cassolette watch box.
CH351545A (en) * 1958-01-03 1961-01-15 Emir S A Manufacturing process of a watch case part
GB1350943A (en) * 1970-07-23 1974-04-24 Suwa Seikosha Kk Timepiece case
CH675517B5 (en) * 1989-01-13 1991-04-15 Ebauchesfabrik Eta Ag
CH675663B5 (en) * 1989-01-23 1991-04-30 Omega Sa

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
SG43172A1 (en) 1997-10-17
EP0600389A1 (en) 1994-06-08
ES2101200T3 (en) 1997-07-01
JPH06214052A (en) 1994-08-05
HK1007810A1 (en) 1999-04-23
CH684861B5 (en) 1995-07-31
JP3310076B2 (en) 2002-07-29
US5363350A (en) 1994-11-08
DE69308759T2 (en) 1997-09-18
DE69308759D1 (en) 1997-04-17
CH684861GA3 (en) 1995-01-31

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