EP0921742B1 - Watchband with hinged chain links and watch equipped with same - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a bracelet, in particular a bracelet watch according to the preamble of claim 1. More specifically, the The present invention relates to a watch strap with articulated links. The The present invention also relates to a watch provided with such a bracelet.

Among the different types of known watch bands, bracelets consisting of several rows of articulated metal links are particularly solid and their aesthetics are well suited to sports watches for example.

An object of the invention is to improve the ergonomics and the comfort of this bracelet type.

According to one aspect of the invention, this object is achieved thanks to the elements of the characterizing part of claim 1. Preferential embodiments are indicated in the dependent claims.

According to another aspect of the invention, the bracelet comprises organs stop limiting the pivot angle of the links. This prevents any pinching of skin or hair between the links when the angle of curvature of the bracelet becomes very small.

Patent CH-A5-661'184 describes a bracelet comprising organs stop to limit the pivot angle of the links. The solution described is however limited to bracelets fitted with a single row of links. In addition, this bracelet is complicated to manufacture.

The bracelet described in patent CH-482421 also has only one single row of links. The opening of the bracelet is limited by stops formed by contact lines on the upper face of the bracelet.

Patent CH-C-669316 describes a bracelet with three rows of links, in which the pivoting angle of the articulated links is not limited only by portions of the upper and lower faces respectively links.

According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the organs of stop prevents direct contact between links. We avoid in this way wear caused by friction on lines or contact surfaces between links. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for bracelets covered with a precious metal plating tending to be damaged if the links come into direct contact.

According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the successive links at least one row are separated by gaps. These interstices subsist whatever. the curvature given to the bracelet. The width of these interstices can be perfectly controlled thanks to the stop members. This gap is sufficient to avoid pinching of skin or hair and improves ventilation of the skin and evacuation of perspiration between the links of the bracelet. This characteristic also makes it possible to obtain bracelets more aesthetic. In a preferred variant, the successive links inside from each row are separated by gaps.

According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the curvature of the bracelet can be perfectly controlled thanks to the stop members. It is so possible to obtain a curvature between successive links, for example regular and therefore a particularly aesthetic bracelet.

The abutment members are preferably little or not visible from the outside of the bracelet, and abut against a portion of the links distinct from the main faces, for example against the inside of an opening through the links. In this way, contact and wear between links takes place only in places with little or no visibility.

According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, at least. some links can be easily removed or added to adjust the length of the bracelet according to the user's wrist. The links can preferably be removed without disassembly of the corresponding stop member.

According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the bracelet is simple and economical construction, presents a limited number of separate parts and allows easy assembly.

la figure 1, une vue en perspective d'une première variante de bracelet comprenant des organes de butée en forme de languettes solidaires des maillons de la première rangée,

la figure 2, une vue latérale de bracelet selon la première variante, illustrant en superposition deux positions extrêmes des maillons de la première rangée,

la figure 3, une vue en perspective d'une deuxième variante de bracelet comprenant des organes de butée en forme de goupilles solidaires des maillons de la deuxième rangée et butant contre l'intérieur d'une ouverture plus grande ménagée à travers les maillons de la première rangée,

la figure 4, une vue en perspective d'une troisième variante préférentielle de bracelet comprenant des organes de butée en forme de goupilles solidaires des maillons de la deuxième rangée et butant contre l'intérieur d'un évidement dans la paroi frontale des maillons de la première rangée,

la figure 5, une vue latérale de bracelet selon la troisième variante illustrant en superposition deux positions extrêmes des maillons de la première rangée.

Other advantages and particular features of the invention will be better understood on reading the examples described in more detail below and the corresponding figures which illustrate:

FIG. 1, a perspective view of a first variant of a bracelet comprising stop members in the form of tongues secured to the links of the first row,

FIG. 2, a side view of the bracelet according to the first variant, illustrating in superposition two extreme positions of the links of the first row,

Figure 3, a perspective view of a second variant of bracelet comprising stop members in the form of pins secured to the links of the second row and abutting against the interior of a larger opening formed through the links of the first row,

FIG. 4, a perspective view of a third preferred variant of bracelet comprising stop members in the form of pins secured to the links of the second row and abutting against the interior of a recess in the front wall of the links of the first row,

Figure 5, a side view of bracelet according to the third variant illustrating in superposition two extreme positions of the links of the first row.

The bracelet segment shown as an example in Figure 1 has three rows of metal links. The center row ("first row ") is made up of successive links 1, 1 ', etc. Each of the two other lateral rows are formed by symmetrical links 2, 2 ', 2 ", etc. In this example, all the links are approximately the same length and the same thickness. The links in the center row are however offset by half a link length approximately with respect to the links of the two more rows. The links could however have lengths and variable thicknesses, and the offset between rows could be different.

In the example shown, the links have an upper face substantially flat or convex. The underside, close to the skin, is substantially parallel to the upper face. The two side faces are approximately flat and parallel. The front side is only roughly flat and has a recess 16. Likewise, the rear face is provided with a stop member 15. Aesthetic considerations can naturally impose different and extremely varied link shapes. The various faces of the links, particularly the upper face, can be curved rather than flat. The different links could also have a very rounded shape in the shape of a bean grain for example.

Each link in the first row, for example the 1 'link, can pivot relative to the previous link 1 around a first pin or pivot 3. The pin 3 is adjusted in openings 21 formed in two adjacent links 2 of the second row. If the 1 'or 2' links must be removable, in order to adjust the length of the bracelet, the opening 21 crosses the links 2 'so that the pin 3 can be removed and the disassembled links. If on the contrary the links 1 and 2 'do not need to be removable. we will preferably choose openings 21 which do not pass through the 2 'links completely and thus allow the two ends to be concealed pins 3.

In the same way. each 1 'link in the center row can pivot relative to the next link 1 "around a second pin 3 ' fitted in openings 21 formed in two adjacent links 2 "of the second row. The second 3 'pin does not have to be removable: the links can be removed in groups of three by dismantling only the first pin 3.

If no stop member was provided, the pivoting of the links 1 ′, 2 'around pin 3 would only be limited by direct contact with another link 1 or 2. If the link is pivoted anticlockwise of the watch (local increase in the radius of curvature of the bracelet), the contact would be made near the convex upper face of the 1 'or 2' link, which in the long run could damage the surface treatment of the link. On the contrary, in case of pivoting of the link clockwise (local decrease in the radius of curvature of the bracelet), contact would be made near the underside of the link 1 'or 2', which could pinch the skin or user's hairs.

In the first variant of the invention, each link of the first row 1, 1 ', etc. is provided with a stop member in the form of a tongue 15 which is inserted into the corresponding recess 16 of the pivoting link previous. It is of course also possible to reverse the layout of the tongue 15 and the recess 16. The shape of the tongues 15 is provided for so that the links fit together without difficulty. These organs of stop 15 make it possible to limit the pivot angle of the links 1 'of the first stored around pins 3 and 3 '.

Figure 2 provides a better understanding of the action of the organs of stop 15. It illustrates in superposition two extreme positions adopted by the links in the first row. We see that in the upper position shown, when the radius of curvature of the bracelet at this location is maximum, the contact between link 1 and the next link 1 'is essentially between the lower part of the stop member 15 and the lower part of the recess corresponding 16. Similarly, in the lower position shown, when the radius of curvature of the bracelet at this point is minimal, the contact between link 1 and the next link 1 'is essentially between the upper part of the stop member 15 and the upper part of the recess corresponding 16. The main faces of two successive links do not enter never in contact, and there is always a gap 17 between the lower faces links. The only contact surface between two successive links 1, 1 ′ is relegated far from the faces, into the recess 16, where the risk of pinching is minimal and where wear is less detrimental to the aesthetics of the bracelet.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the stop members 15 limit also the pivot angle of the links of the other lateral rows 2, 2 ', etc.

Various forms of tongues 15 and corresponding recesses 16 can be imagined. The recess 16 could be less closed than on Figures 1 and 2, in order to relegate the contact surface even further from main faces.

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a second variant bracelet according to the invention. Items identical or similar to those of the first variant described above have the same numbering and their description will not be repeated here.

In this second variant, the stop members limiting the angle for pivoting the swivel links 1, 1 ', etc. consist of pins 4, 4 'integral with the links of the other lateral rows 2, 2', etc. These pins pass through holes 13 through links 1, 1 ', etc of the first row. The diameter of the holes 13 is larger than the diameter of the portion activates corresponding pins 4, 4 '. The central links 1, 1 ', etc. can pivot around pins 3 and 3 ', the pivot angle being however limited by the limited clearance of the pins 4, 4 'in the openings 13.

It is of course possible to reverse this arrangement and use stop pins secured to the central links 1, 1 'etc. and cooperating with larger holes in the side links 2, 2 ', etc.

Compared to the first variant of the invention described above in relationship with Figures 1 and 2, this second variant has the advantage clearly facilitated link machining. The pivot angle of the links 1, 1 ', etc. can be easily checked by adjusting the diameter and / or the location of the openings 13 and / or the pins 4, 4 '. This solution allows for example to vary the maximum pivot angles along the bracelet: some links can be assembled almost rigidly with openings 13 of small diameter, while other links can be loosely assembled with large diameter openings 13, giving greater travel to the pins 4, 4 '. In addition, it is possible to vary afterwards the maximum or minimum radius of curvature of a bracelet by replacing links with others provided with openings 13 of different diameters, or by using pins 4, 4 'of different diameter, or by using links provided with openings 20, 13 placed differently. The curvature and shape of the bracelet can thus be adapted to the user's wrist without change the number of links.

The different links can only be made removable if the 3 'hinge pins as well as 4' stop pins can be withdrawn. When these two pins are removed, the assembly between the links 2 ', 1' and 2 'and the respective previous links 2, 1, 2 is undone. The pins 3 and 4 should only be removed if it is necessary to disassemble the links 2 ', 1', 2 'individually, which is generally not necessary. he it is therefore necessary to provide at least two through holes 20, 21 through the side links 2, 2 ', etc., which is relatively unsightly and complicates the assembly and disassembly of the bracelet.

Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a third variant advantageous bracelet on this point. Items identical or similar to those of the variants described above bear the same numbering and their description will not be repeated here.

In this third variant, as in the second variant, the abutment members limiting the pivot angle of the links 1, 1 ', etc. are constituted by pins 4, 4 ′ secured to the links of the other rows 2, 2 ', etc. However, these pins here pass through recesses 10 machined in the front wall of links 1, 1 ', etc. The height of the recesses 10 is larger than the diameter of the active portion of the corresponding pins 4, 4 'in the recess. The recesses 10 can for example have a profile rectangular and be easily obtained for example by milling. The links 1, 1 ', etc. of the first row can pivot around pins 3 and 3 ', the pivoting angle being however limited by the limited deflection of the pins 4, 4 'in the recesses 10.

Figure 5 provides a better understanding of the action of the organs of stop 4, 4 'in the recesses 10. It illustrates in superposition two positions extremes adopted by the links in the first row. We see that in the upper position shown, when the radius of curvature of the bracelet this place is maximum, the articulation between the link 1 and the next link 1 ' is limited only by the contact between the lower part of the pin 4 ' and the lower part of the corresponding recess 10. Similarly, in the lower position shown, when the radius of curvature of the bracelet at this location is minimal, the link between link 1 and the next link 1 'is limited only by the contact between the upper part of the pin 4 'and the upper part of the corresponding recess 10. The different faces of different links never come into contact. The only stop zone limiting the articulation of the links is relegated to the bottom of the recess 10, where the risk less pinching and where wear is the least detrimental to aesthetics of the bracelet.

Compared to the second variant, this solution makes it possible to remove or add links without removing the pins 4, 4 '.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention applies without difficulty to bracelets with any number of rows N greater or equal to two, and the number of three rows chosen above is not as a preferred example. In addition, those skilled in the art will be able to adapt without difficulty the invention by placing ies stop members 4, 4 'or 15 on a row of links other than the central row, or possibly on several rows of links. For example, instead of providing stops acting on links 1, 1 ', etc. of the central row, we can prefer stops acting on the links of another row, for example on the links side 2, 2 ', etc.

In all the examples above, the pivoting of the links is limited in both directions, both in the case of an increase and a reduction the radius of curvature of the bracelet. By slightly adapting the shape or layout stop members 4, 4 ′ or 15 or corresponding openings 10, 13, 16, it is however possible to limit the pivoting of the links that in a way. For example, if the bracelet must be able to be laid flat, we will eventually waive limiting the increase in the radius of curvature of the bracelet. In the same way, by playing on the arrangement of the stop members and corresponding openings, it is possible to waive limiting the decrease in the radius of curvature of the bracelet.

In the variants of FIGS. 3 to 5, two separate abutment members 4 and 4 'are provided to limit the pivoting of a link relative to the previous link and relative to the next link in the same row. According to the shape and spacing of the links, a single stop 4 or 4 ', limiting only pivoting with respect to the previous link or with respect to the link next, may be sufficient.

In these variants, the stop pins 4, 4 'pass completely through the central links. It is however possible to use stops integral with the peripheral links 2, 2 ', etc. that would not cross completely the holes 13 or the recesses 10 through the central links 1, 1 ', etc. For example, it is possible to replace each pin 4, 4 'by two portions of pins. The first portion of pin is in this case integral a side link 2, 2 ', etc. and the second pin portion is secured to the corresponding link on the other side row. The holes or recesses 10, 13, then do not need to be through.

It is obvious that the links of the bracelet will not necessarily have the shape illustrated in the figures. In particular, the links close to watch or clasp horns will be specially adapted. In addition, it is possible to provide stop members only on certain links of the bracelet, or even on a single link. It will be understood that it is also possible to manufacture bracelets comprising several types of links according to the examples described above.

Claims (13)

1. Bracelet or band, in particular watchband, comprising:

   a first row of aligned links (1, 1', ...);

   at least one further row of aligned links (2, 2', ...), said further row being adjacent to said first row,

   said first row (1, 1', etc.) including articulated links (1'), said articulated links being able to pivot with respect to preceding links (1) of this row about first pins (3) connected to links (2') of said further row,

      characterised in that the angle of pivoting of the articulated links (1') about the first pins (3) is limited by first stop elements (4; 15) distinct from upper or lower face portions of said articulated links (1').
2. Band or bracelet according to the preceding claim, characterised in that said articulated links (1') can in addition pivot with respect to following links (1") of this row about second pins (3') connected to further links (2") of said other row,
      second stop elements (4'; 15) allowing limitation of the pivot angle of articulated links (1') about second pins (3').
3. Band or bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that it includes three rows of links, the distance between the centres of two consecutive links of the same row being approximately constant, said first row (1, 1', etc.) being shifted with respect to the links of said other rows (2, 2', etc.).
4. Band or bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the stop elements (15) co-operate with the links (1) of the first row consecutive to the articulated links (1') whose pivoting must be limited.
5. Band or bracelet according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the stop elements (4, 4') co-operate with the links (2, 2") of one said other row (2, 2').
6. Band or bracelet according the preceding claim, characterised in that the stop elements are pins (4, 4') connected to links (2', 2") of one said other row (2, 2', etc.) and shifted with respect to the first and second pins (3, 3').
7. Band or bracelet according to one of the claims 5 or 6, characterised in that the successive links (1, 1', ...; 2, 2', ...) on the inside of each row are separated by interstices (17) which remain regardless of the curvature given to the band or bracelet.
8. Band or bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the articulated links (1') include at least certain approximately flat or convex external faces, and in that the stop elements (4, 4'; 15) stop against a portion of links (1') distinct from said approximately flat or convex external faces.
9. Band or bracelet according the preceding claim, characterised in that the stop elements (4, 4'; 15) stop against the inside of corresponding apertures (10; 13; 16) provided through the articulated links (1'), said apertures (10; 13; 16) being larger than the active portion of the corresponding stop elements (4, 4'; 15).
10. Band or bracelet according the preceding claim, characterised in that said apertures (13) are holes (13) through the articulated links (1').
11. Band or bracelet according to claim 9, characterised in that said apertures (16; 10) through the articulated links (1') are recesses (16; 10) in a frontal face of the articulated links, allowing the articulated links to be withdrawn without disassembly of the corresponding stop elements (4, 4'; 15).
12. Band or bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that it includes a plurality of articulated links (1, 1', etc.) and a plurality of corresponding first stop elements (4; 15) and in that said stop elements (4; 15) define the different pivot angles for the different articulated links.
13. Watch provided with a band or bracelet according to one of the preceding claims.

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