EP1287758A1 - Link for wrist watch bracelet - Google Patents

Link for wrist watch bracelet Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1287758A1
EP1287758A1 EP01203226A EP01203226A EP1287758A1 EP 1287758 A1 EP1287758 A1 EP 1287758A1 EP 01203226 A EP01203226 A EP 01203226A EP 01203226 A EP01203226 A EP 01203226A EP 1287758 A1 EP1287758 A1 EP 1287758A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
link
watch
bracelet
case
covering
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP01203226A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1287758B1 (en
Inventor
Christophe Guerry
Sébastien Bolzt
Steeve Gerber
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Rado Uhren AG
Original Assignee
Swatch Group Management Services AG
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Swatch Group Management Services AG filed Critical Swatch Group Management Services AG
Priority to DE60123950T priority Critical patent/DE60123950T2/en
Priority to EP01203226A priority patent/EP1287758B1/en
Priority to AT01203226T priority patent/ATE342676T1/en
Publication of EP1287758A1 publication Critical patent/EP1287758A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1287758B1 publication Critical patent/EP1287758B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/14—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps characterised by the way of fastening to a wrist-watch or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/02—Link constructions
    • A44C5/10—Link constructions not extensible
    • A44C5/107—Link constructions not extensible with links made of more than two elements including connecting elements

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a link, intended to connect a bracelet to the case of a watch, the latter comprising a covering element which defines the at least partially its limits in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, this element dressing being obtained by a process including a sintering step.
  • the invention relates more generally to the field of watch straps partially made of hard materials, such as ceramic, intended to be assembled on watches with a case made of hard material.
  • Such a type of bracelet having a more or less flexible internal structure providing a framework function and covered at least partially with a covering, is known to those skilled in the art.
  • US Patent No. 5,365,753 describes a bracelet, in particular for a watch, comprising an internal chain composed of articulated links, linked together by hinges.
  • Each of these links made up of two structural elements, is covered by an external covering element made of ceramic.
  • each link comprises means for retaining the corresponding covering element of so as to obtain an advantageous aesthetic effect, insofar as the different hinges connecting the links together are thus never apparent.
  • the covering parts made of hard materials are obtained by methods comprising a molding step followed by sintering. At during sintering these parts undergo a contraction, i.e. a reduction significant volume, under the combined actions of heat and pressure, this contraction can represent more than 30% of the initial volume.
  • the currently implemented methods currently make it possible to manufacture such parts with tolerances on the dimensions which are of the order of 0.5 to 1%, the step sintering making it difficult to obtain lower tolerances. We can note that these tolerances fluctuate depending on the batches of raw material used.
  • the main object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the art mentioned above and to improve the aesthetics of existing timepieces.
  • the invention relates to a link for a watch strap of the type mentioned above, characterized in that it comprises a first hollow element provided with means for fixing to the bracelet, a second element, part of which is nested in the first element and carrying means for fixing to the housing of the watch and a third external covering element, integral with the first element and covering at least partially the second element on the side of the fixing means to the housing.
  • the link according to the present invention is further characterized by the fact that it includes a mechanical device allowing a translation of the first element relative to the second element in the direction of the bracelet, so as to press the third covering element against the covering element of the watch case.
  • the first element is hollow and the mechanical device is housed therein in particular in the form of elastic means, such as that one or more springs or an elastomer block.
  • elastic means exert a restoring force on the first element so as to bring it closer to the second end of the second element, the latter carrying the means of attachment to the watch case and extending outside the first element, through a opening made in a wall of the latter.
  • This restoring force is a permanent rimpedement of the third element covering the link against the watch case, regardless of the value of manufacturing tolerances of the watch case.
  • the volume left free by the device mechanical in the first hollow element is sealed against the external environment, thanks to the use of a particular structure and joints adequate.
  • This feature can possibly be used to accommodate various electronic components or even a battery in the first element.
  • the mechanical means include means for adjusting the position of the strap relative to the watch case.
  • the settings are made when the bracelet is assembled on the housing, so that the junction is uninterrupted, and can be modified later.
  • These means may in particular comprise an adjustment screw, linked in various ways to the different elements of the link according to the present invention.
  • the screw is housed in a hole in the second element of the link, that buffers are arranged on the share screw and other of the second element, these buffers being capable of being moved in a direction perpendicular to that of the bracelet, at least one of the buffers being provided of a thread.
  • at least one guide oblique to the direction of the bracelet is provided, for each buffer, on the wall of the first element comprising the opening and / or on the first end of the second element, such so that each of the oblique guides is in abutment against the pad corresponding, and that a rotation of the screw is likely to modify the distance between the buffers and therefore the relative positions of the first and second elements.
  • This alternative embodiment advantageously makes it possible to carry out a very precise adjustment of the position of the first element relative to the second element, and therefore the position of the third trim element relative to the housing of the shows.
  • first and second elements of the link respectively have surfaces side located opposite which are at least partially in mutual contact, the screw passing through an opening of the second element which has an oblong section elongated, the threaded end of the screw being housed in a tapped hole formed in through said surface of the first element while the head of the screw is in position clamped, in abutment against a face of the second element opposite to said surface in contact with the first element.
  • This alternative embodiment allows a level of precision of less adjustment than that accessible with the previous variant, but present the advantage of greater simplicity of construction.
  • the head of said screw is freely rotatable housed in the wall of said first element opposite to said wall comprising the opening, while the threaded end is housed in a threaded hole of said end of the second link element located inside said first element.
  • Another object of the invention is a watch strap as defined in claim 18 appended hereto.
  • the wristwatch thus obtained therefore has an advantageous aesthetic due to the continuity existing between the bracelet and the case.
  • each of the links of the bracelet has a structure similar to that of the link ensuring the junction between the bracelet and the case of the watch, so as to ensure continuity of the junctions present on the whole watch.
  • FIG. 1 shows a wristwatch 101 according to the prior art comprising a strap 102 connected to a watch case 103, the latter including both an invisible internal structure covered with a ceramic covering 104. It can be seen in this figure that, on either side of the housing 103, games, noted d1 and d2, are apparent at the junctions between said housing and the first links 105 of bracelet 102.
  • the present invention solves the aforementioned problem by the use of a link with a particular structure to establish the connection mechanical between the bracelet and the case.
  • FIGS 2a, 2b and 2c show such a link 1 according to a first mode for carrying out the invention.
  • the link 1 comprises a first hollow element 2, of general parallelepiped shape, shown here with a bottom 3 in its part lower and closed by a cover 4.
  • screws 5 have been provided to secure the cover 4 to the first element 2, the screw heads being arranged in abutment against the cover while their threaded rods cooperate with holes tapped 6 of the first element.
  • the first element 2 has an opening 7, preferably substantially circular, in the center of one 8 of its walls so as to allow the passage of a elongated part of a second element 9 through said wall 8.
  • the first element 2 further comprises means 10 for fixing to the next link, of the current type such as hinges as shown in the figures, arranged on the wall 11 of the first element 1 opposite said wall 8 and used in combination with a bar (not shown) of current type.
  • the link described below can be used not only to attach a bracelet to the case of a watch, as shown here, but also to make an entire watch strap.
  • the fixing means 10 can also serve to establish the mechanical connection with means of attachment of the bracelet such than a folding clasp.
  • the second element 9 has an elongated overall shape, a first of its ends 12 being housed inside the first hollow element 2, while the second end 13 is located outside.
  • the first end 12 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, in a shape rectangular whose dimensions are slightly smaller than the dimensions interior of the first element.
  • the second element further comprises a rod 14, of substantially circular section and slightly smaller than the opening 7. Said rod 14, starting from the center of the first end 12, passes through said opening 7, up to a region having a larger section defining said second end 13.
  • the second end 13 has a bore 15 filling the hinge function, or fixing means, capable of receiving a bar for establish the connection of the second element 9, and therefore of the link 1, to the watch case (partially shown).
  • said bore can also make it possible to establish the mechanical connection with the previous link, more precisely with said links fastening means 10 of the next link.
  • said second element has two separate parts whose junction is made at the level of the rod 14 by means of a key 16 of the conventional type.
  • This essential structural characteristic makes it possible to mount said second element 13 through the opening 7.
  • a particular mechanical device in accordance with the invention, is housed in the first hollow element 2. More precisely, two helical springs 17 are interposed, in the first hollow element 2, between the first end 12 of the second element and the wall 8 of the first element, on either side of the rod 14. When the second element 9 is arranged in such a way that its first end 12 bears against the wall 11 of the first element, as shown in the figure 2b, the springs are in a slightly compressed state.
  • the link further comprises a third main element 18 which provides a dressing function.
  • This third covering element 18 has, in the example shown, a generally rectangular hollow shape and is preferably made of ceramic.
  • the internal dimensions of said third element 18 are substantially greater than the external dimensions of the first element 2 and one of its walls 19 is fully open, so as to be able to accommodate said first element 2 inside the third element 18.
  • the opposite wall 20 to said wall 19 has an opening 21 of dimensions substantially greater than those of the second end 13 of the second element 9 so as to leave free a passage for this one. Therefore, when link 1 is assembled, the third covering element 18 at least partially covers the first and second elements.
  • link 1 is such that the first element 2 is completely covered by said third element dressing 18.
  • FIG. 3a shows a variant of the embodiment which comes to be described. Indeed, the only difference distinguishing these two variants is located at level of the nature of the mechanical device used to exert the restoring force on the second element 9.
  • the springs 17 have been each replaced by a block 26 of parallelepiped shape, preferably made made of rubber or any other elastomer.
  • the blocks 26 are represented in a compressed state in FIG. 3a, therefore in a configuration such that they exert a restoring force on the second element 9 so as to bring together mutual watch case 22 and link 1.
  • said blocks 26 are not free in the first element 2, but they come from a single piece with the flat seal 23, as visible in Figure 3b. So the stability of their position in the first element 2 and therefore the proper functioning of the device mechanical return are ensured.
  • the first and second elements have different shapes from those previously described.
  • the second element 9 of the link 1 is here produced in a single piece comprising two main parts perpendicular to each other, one of which defines the first end 12 while the other 27 carries the second end 13.
  • Said first end 12 has a general shape of a parallelepiped whose two edges orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and situated on the side of the second main part 27 are truncated, so as to define two inclined planes 28.
  • the second main part 27 extends, from the middle of the first end 12, in a general shape of a parallelepiped elongated in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.
  • She further comprises, opposite said first end 12, a bore 15 fulfilling the function of hinge, or fixing means, and defining the second end 13 of the second element.
  • Said hinge 15 is likely to receive a bar (not shown) to establish the connection of the second element 9, and therefore of the link 1, to the case 22 of the watch (partially shown).
  • the first element has, in its wall 8, an opening 7 of section rectangular whose dimensions are significantly larger than those of the second main part 27 of the second element 9.
  • Said wall 8 further comprises recesses 30 at each of its junctions with the lateral flanks 31 of the first element 2. These recesses 30 thus define inclined planes 32 of which the respective angles to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet are opposite to those of angles presented by the inclined planes 28, respectively located opposite, of the first end 12.
  • One of said lateral flanks 31 of the first element has an opening cylindrical 33 whose function will be described later.
  • a screw 34 is arranged through the opening 29 of the second element 9, the head 35 of said screw being disposed opposite the cylindrical opening 33 to be made accessible by an operator.
  • each of said pads has two parallel rectangular bases 38, 39 and four faces, two of which opposite faces 40 are perpendicular to said bases, the other two faces 41 being inclined with respect to the axis of the screw by an angle of the same value as the said inclined planes 28 and 32 located opposite.
  • the two faces 41 have a shape rectangular while the other two faces 40 are in the form of trapezoids.
  • the pads also each have a through hole 42, perpendicular to said bases in their center.
  • a first pad 36 located on the side of the head 35 of the screw, comprises also a cylindrical clearance 43 of dimensions such that said head 35 of the screw can be fully accommodated.
  • Said cylindrical clearance 43 and said hole through 42 respectively have dimensions substantially greater than those of the head 35 and the screw rod 34 respectively, so that a rotation free of the screw 34 in the buffer 36 is possible.
  • the second buffer 37 has, in its through hole, a thread cooperating with the thread of the screw 34 and is located near the end of the rod screws 34.
  • FIG. 5a to 5c also uses when using a screw 34 housed in the first element 2 of the link 1.
  • said screw is disposed through an opening 29 of the second element, of oblong section of greater width than in the mode of previous embodiment, and its head 35 is accessible through an opening 33 formed in one of the lateral sides 31 of said first element.
  • the end 44 of the threaded rod of the screw 34 is housed in a hole tapped 45, made in the lateral flank 31 of the first element opposite to that with opening 33.
  • the screw 34 is loosened in a position similar to that shown on Figure 5a.
  • the friction forces occurring between the part 46 of the first element 2 and the second main part 27 of the second element 9 are weak.
  • a translation of the first element 2 relative to the second item 9, or vice versa is made possible.
  • the screw 34 is then tightened until its head 35 abuts against part 27 of the second element 9, which has the effect of clamping the second element 9 against the part 46 of the first element 2.
  • the friction forces between the first and second elements 2, 9 are so great that a translation of one of these elements relative to the other is no longer possible.
  • the wristwatch can then be assembled without its internal structure is visible at the junctions between the housing 22 and the first links 1, located on either side of said housing.
  • the link 1 according to another embodiment, shown in Figures 6a and 6b, also includes a screw 34 but arranged here in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.
  • the first element 2 has a simplified form compared to previous variants. Indeed, the general shape of element 2 is parallelepiped and has a recess 47, also shaped parallelepiped, starting from the wall 8, extending over the entire height of the element 2 and over most of its width.
  • the first element 2 further comprises a cylindrical opening 48 passing through the first element 2 from its wall 11 up to the recess 47. Said opening 48 comprises, from the wall 11 and in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, two portions 49, 50 of which the first 49 has a larger diameter than that of the second portion 50 opening into the recess 47.
  • the second element 9 comprises, from its first end 12, a first portion 51 of constant section substantially smaller than the dimensions of the recess 47, followed by a second portion 52 of section slightly greater than that of said first portion and ending in second end 13, likewise section as the first serving.
  • the second element 9 also has a hole threaded 53 formed from the first end 12, in the direction longitudinal of the bracelet.
  • the third covering element 18 has in its wall 20 an opening 21 of rectangular section and whose dimensions are substantially greater than those of the second portion 52 of the second element 9. In addition, the length of said second portion 52 is substantially equal to the thickness of said wall 20.
  • the screw 34 is arranged in the link 1, so that its head 35 and a short part of its stem are housed in the cylindrical opening 48 of the first element 2, the head 35 being in abutment against the junction separating the portions 49 and 50.
  • the head 35 of said screw is accessible through the wall 19 open of the third covering element 18.
  • the end 44 of the screw 34 is screwed in the tapped hole 53 of the second element 9.
  • the screw 34 is free to turn on itself without moving relative to the first element 2 while its degree of penetration into the second element 9 can be modified by screwing or unscrewing.
  • first element 2 with a more complex shape, in particular by providing a hollow area and means for sealing said hollow zone in relation to the environment outside, in order to be able to house electronic components.

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Abstract

The link (1) has two hollow components (2,9) attached to the bracelet and watchcase. An exterior sintered decorative component (18) is secured to the hollow components such that they partially cover the second hollow one. Mechanical device (17) allows translation between the components in the direction of bracelet to apply external decorative component against the decorative component of the watchcase.

Description

La présente invention concerne un maillon, prévu pour relier un bracelet au boítier d'une montre, ce dernier comportant un élément d'habillage qui définit au moins partiellement ses limites dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet, cet élément d'habillage étant obtenu par un procédé incluant une étape de frittage.The present invention relates to a link, intended to connect a bracelet to the case of a watch, the latter comprising a covering element which defines the at least partially its limits in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, this element dressing being obtained by a process including a sintering step.

L'invention concerne plus généralement le domaine des bracelets de montre réalisés partiellement en matériaux durs, tel que la céramique, destinés à être assemblés sur des montres dont le boítier comporte un habillage en matériau dur.The invention relates more generally to the field of watch straps partially made of hard materials, such as ceramic, intended to be assembled on watches with a case made of hard material.

Un tel type de bracelet, comportant une structure interne plus ou moins flexible assurant une fonction d'ossature et recouverte au moins partiellement d'un habillage, est connu de l'homme du métier.Such a type of bracelet, having a more or less flexible internal structure providing a framework function and covered at least partially with a covering, is known to those skilled in the art.

Le brevet américain No 5,365,753 décrit un bracelet, notamment pour montre, comportant une chaíne interne composée de maillons articulés, reliés entre eux par des charnières. Chacun de ces maillons, constitué de deux éléments structurels, est recouvert par un élément externe d'habillage réalisé en céramique. En outre, chaque maillon comporte des moyens de retenue de l'élément d'habillage correspondant de façon à obtenir un effet esthétique avantageux, dans la mesure où les différentes charnières reliant les maillons entre eux ne sont ainsi jamais apparentes.US Patent No. 5,365,753 describes a bracelet, in particular for a watch, comprising an internal chain composed of articulated links, linked together by hinges. Each of these links, made up of two structural elements, is covered by an external covering element made of ceramic. In addition, each link comprises means for retaining the corresponding covering element of so as to obtain an advantageous aesthetic effect, insofar as the different hinges connecting the links together are thus never apparent.

Cependant, cette structure présente certaines limites dans son application, de même que les bracelets de ce type connus de l'art antérieur d'une manière générale. En effet, les pièces d'habillage en matériaux durs, par exemple en céramique, sont obtenues par des procédés comportant une étape de moulage suivie d'un frittage. Au cours du frittage ces pièces subissent une contraction, c'est-à-dire une réduction importante de leur volume, sous les actions combinées de la chaleur et de la pression, cette contraction pouvant représenter plus de 30% du volume initial. Les procédés couramment mis en oeuvre permettent actuellement de fabriquer de telles pièces avec des tolérances sur les dimensions qui sont de l'ordre de 0,5 à 1%, l'étape de frittage rendant difficile l'obtention de tolérances plus faibles. On peut noter que ces tolérances fluctuent en fonction des lots de matière première utilisés.However, this structure has certain limits in its application, from same as bracelets of this type known from the prior art in general. In fact, the covering parts made of hard materials, for example ceramic, are obtained by methods comprising a molding step followed by sintering. At during sintering these parts undergo a contraction, i.e. a reduction significant volume, under the combined actions of heat and pressure, this contraction can represent more than 30% of the initial volume. The currently implemented methods currently make it possible to manufacture such parts with tolerances on the dimensions which are of the order of 0.5 to 1%, the step sintering making it difficult to obtain lower tolerances. We can note that these tolerances fluctuate depending on the batches of raw material used.

Les tolérances mises en jeu se traduisent, par exemple, par des incertitudes de l'ordre du cinquième de millimètre sur la longueur d'une boíte de montre en céramique de 3 centimètres. Dans la mesure où ce type de montre se situe dans le haut de gamme de l'horlogerie, une telle incertitude est difficilement acceptable pour leurs fabricants. The tolerances involved translate, for example, into uncertainties of the order of a fifth of a millimeter over the length of a watch case in 3 cm ceramic. Insofar as this type of watch is located in the high-end watchmaking, such uncertainty is difficult to accept for their manufacturers.

Par conséquent, il était prévu dans l'art antérieur de procéder à un usinage manuel, après l'étape de frittage, pour rattraper les divers jeux existant entre les éléments en céramique de l'habillage d'une telle montre.Therefore, it was planned in the prior art to carry out a machining manual, after the sintering step, to make up for the various clearances existing between the ceramic elements of the covering of such a watch.

Toutefois, devant la demande croissante des clients pour de tels produits, le nombre de pièces d'horlogerie comportant un habillage en céramique à fabriquer a beaucoup augmenté depuis quelques années, rendant les étapes d'usinage très laborieuses au vu de la quantité de pièces à traiter. En outre, cette étape d'usinage est rendue plus difficile du fait de la complexité croissante des géométries de boíte de montre réalisées actuellement, ce qui complique le blocage de la pièce dans une position donnée pour pouvoir travailler dessus.However, in the face of increasing customer demand for such products, the number of timepieces with ceramic casing to be manufactured a greatly increased in recent years, making the machining steps very laborious in view of the quantity of parts to be treated. In addition, this machining step is made more difficult due to the increasing complexity of the box geometries shows currently being made, which complicates the blocking of the part in a position given to be able to work on it.

On peut noter que ce problème est d'autant plus gênant que les dimensions des pièces d'habillage à fabriquer sont importantes. En particulier, les tolérances de fabrication mentionnées ci-dessus ont une incidence néfaste au niveau de la boíte de montre, dont les dimensions sont généralement supérieures à celles des maillons de bracelet. De même, plus le fabricant de telles pièces d'horlogerie veut réaliser de maillons de bracelet avec de grandes dimensions, plus il aura de difficultés à réaliser les jonctions entre la boíte de montre et le bracelet ou entre maillons du bracelet présentant une esthétique satisfaisante.It can be noted that this problem is all the more annoying as the dimensions dressing pieces to be made are important. In particular, the tolerances of manufacturing mentioned above have a negative impact on the box watch, the dimensions of which are generally greater than those of the links bracelet. Similarly, the more the manufacturer of such timepieces wants to achieve bracelet links with large dimensions, the more difficult it will be to realize the junctions between the watch case and the bracelet or between the links of the bracelet with a satisfactory aesthetic.

La présente invention a pour but principal de pallier les inconvénients de l'art antérieur susmentionnés et d'améliorer l'esthétique des pièces d'horlogerie existantes.The main object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the art mentioned above and to improve the aesthetics of existing timepieces.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un maillon pour bracelet de montre du type mentionné plus haut, caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte un premier élément creux muni de moyens de fixation au bracelet, un second élément dont une partie est imbriquée dans le premier élément et portant des moyens de fixation au boítier de la montre et un troisième élément externe d'habillage, solidaire du premier élément et recouvrant au moins partiellement le second élément du côté des moyens de fixation au boítier. Le maillon selon la présente invention est en outre caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte un dispositif mécanique permettant une translation du premier élément relativement au second élément dans la direction du bracelet, de manière à plaquer le troisième élément d'habillage contre l'élément d'habillage du boítier de la montre.To this end, the invention relates to a link for a watch strap of the type mentioned above, characterized in that it comprises a first hollow element provided with means for fixing to the bracelet, a second element, part of which is nested in the first element and carrying means for fixing to the housing of the watch and a third external covering element, integral with the first element and covering at least partially the second element on the side of the fixing means to the housing. The link according to the present invention is further characterized by the fact that it includes a mechanical device allowing a translation of the first element relative to the second element in the direction of the bracelet, so as to press the third covering element against the covering element of the watch case.

Grâce à ces caractéristiques, un ajustement de la position du bracelet par rapport à la boíte de montre est rendu possible pour corriger les problèmes de tolérances de fabrication. Le résultat d'un tel ajustement est l'obtention d'une jonction ininterrompue entre le bracelet et la boíte de montre, ce qui est avantageux du point de vue esthétique.Thanks to these characteristics, an adjustment of the position of the bracelet by report to the watch case is made possible to correct the problems of manufacturing tolerances. The result of such an adjustment is to obtain a junction uninterrupted between the bracelet and the watch case, which is advantageous from the point from an aesthetic point of view.

Dans un premier mode de réalisation, le premier élément est creux et le dispositif mécanique y est logé sous la forme notamment de moyens élastiques, tels qu'un ou plusieurs ressorts ou encore un bloc en élastomère. Ces moyens élastiques exercent une force de rappel sur le premier élément de manière à le rapprocher de la seconde extrémité du second élément, celle-ci portant les moyens de fixation au boítier de la montre et s'étendant à l'extérieur du premier élément, à travers une ouverture pratiquée dans une paroi de ce dernier. Le résultat obtenu par l'application de cette force de rappel est un rapprochement permanent du troisième élément d'habillage du maillon contre le boítier de la montre, indépendamment de la valeur des tolérances de fabrication du boítier de la montre.In a first embodiment, the first element is hollow and the mechanical device is housed therein in particular in the form of elastic means, such as that one or more springs or an elastomer block. These elastic means exert a restoring force on the first element so as to bring it closer to the second end of the second element, the latter carrying the means of attachment to the watch case and extending outside the first element, through a opening made in a wall of the latter. The result obtained by the application of this restoring force is a permanent rapprochement of the third element covering the link against the watch case, regardless of the value of manufacturing tolerances of the watch case.

Dans une variante de réalisation, le volume laissé libre par le dispositif mécanique dans le premier élément creux est rendu étanche par rapport à l'environnement extérieur, grâce à l'utilisation d'une structure particulière et de joints adéquats. Cette caractéristique peut être éventuellement mise à profit pour loger divers composants électroniques voire une pile dans le premier élément.In an alternative embodiment, the volume left free by the device mechanical in the first hollow element is sealed against the external environment, thanks to the use of a particular structure and joints adequate. This feature can possibly be used to accommodate various electronic components or even a battery in the first element.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation, les moyens mécaniques comportent des moyens de réglage de la position du bracelet par rapport au boítier de la montre. Autrement dit, les réglages sont effectués au moment de l'assemblage du bracelet sur le boítier, de telle sorte que la jonction y est ininterrompue, et peuvent être modifiés ultérieurement. Ces moyens peuvent notamment comporter une vis de réglage, liée de diverses façons aux différents éléments du maillon selon la présente invention.In another embodiment, the mechanical means include means for adjusting the position of the strap relative to the watch case. In other words, the settings are made when the bracelet is assembled on the housing, so that the junction is uninterrupted, and can be modified later. These means may in particular comprise an adjustment screw, linked in various ways to the different elements of the link according to the present invention.

On peut en effet prévoir que la vis est logée dans un trou ménagé dans le second élément du maillon, que des tampons sont disposés sur la vis de part et d'autre du second élément, ces tampons étant susceptibles d'être déplacés dans une direction perpendiculaire à celle du bracelet, l'un au moins des tampons étant muni d'un filetage. En outre, au moins un guide oblique par rapport à la direction du bracelet est ménagé, pour chaque tampon, sur la paroi du premier élément comportant l'ouverture et/ou sur la première extrémité du second élément, de telle manière que chacun des guides obliques est en butée contre le tampon correspondant, et qu'une rotation de la vis est susceptible de modifier la distance comprise entre les tampons et donc les positions relatives des premier et second éléments.We can indeed provide that the screw is housed in a hole in the second element of the link, that buffers are arranged on the share screw and other of the second element, these buffers being capable of being moved in a direction perpendicular to that of the bracelet, at least one of the buffers being provided of a thread. In addition, at least one guide oblique to the direction of the bracelet is provided, for each buffer, on the wall of the first element comprising the opening and / or on the first end of the second element, such so that each of the oblique guides is in abutment against the pad corresponding, and that a rotation of the screw is likely to modify the distance between the buffers and therefore the relative positions of the first and second elements.

Cette variante de réalisation permet avantageusement de procéder à un réglage très précis de la position du premier élément par rapport au second élément, et donc de la position du troisième élément d'habillage par rapport au boítier de la montre.This alternative embodiment advantageously makes it possible to carry out a very precise adjustment of the position of the first element relative to the second element, and therefore the position of the third trim element relative to the housing of the shows.

On peut également prévoir, dans une autre variante de réalisation, que les premier et second éléments du maillon présentent respectivement des surfaces latérales situées en vis-à-vis qui sont au moins partiellement en contact mutuel, la vis traversant une ouverture du second élément laquelle présente une section oblongue allongée, l'extrémité filetée de la vis étant logée dans un trou taraudé ménagé à travers ladite surface du premier élément tandis que la tête de la vis est, en position serrée, en butée contre une face du second élément opposée à ladite surface en contact avec le premier élément.It is also possible, in another alternative embodiment, for the first and second elements of the link respectively have surfaces side located opposite which are at least partially in mutual contact, the screw passing through an opening of the second element which has an oblong section elongated, the threaded end of the screw being housed in a tapped hole formed in through said surface of the first element while the head of the screw is in position clamped, in abutment against a face of the second element opposite to said surface in contact with the first element.

Cette variante de réalisation permet d'atteindre un niveau de précision de réglage moindre que celui accessible avec la variante précédente, mais présente l'avantage d'une plus grande simplicité de construction.This alternative embodiment allows a level of precision of less adjustment than that accessible with the previous variant, but present the advantage of greater simplicity of construction.

Il est prévu dans une autre variante de réalisation que la tête de ladite vis est logée à libre rotation dans la paroi dudit premier élément opposée à ladite paroi comportant l'ouverture, tandis que l'extrémité filetée est logée dans un trou taraudé de ladite extrémité du second élément du maillon située à l'intérieur dudit premier élément.It is provided in another alternative embodiment that the head of said screw is freely rotatable housed in the wall of said first element opposite to said wall comprising the opening, while the threaded end is housed in a threaded hole of said end of the second link element located inside said first element.

De cette façon, même si la tête de la vis n'est pas aussi accessible que dans les variantes précédentes, on peut obtenir un niveau de précision élevé tout en ayant une grande simplicité de construction.In this way, even if the head of the screw is not as accessible as in the previous variants, we can obtain a high level of precision while having great simplicity of construction.

Un autre objet de l'invention est un bracelet de montre tel que définit à la revendication 18 ci-annexée.Another object of the invention is a watch strap as defined in claim 18 appended hereto.

La montre-bracelet ainsi obtenue présente donc une esthétique avantageuse du fait de la continuité existant entre le bracelet et le boítier.The wristwatch thus obtained therefore has an advantageous aesthetic due to the continuity existing between the bracelet and the case.

On peut prévoir en outre que chacun des maillons du bracelet comporte une structure similaire à celle du maillon assurant la jonction entre le bracelet et le boítier de la montre, de manière à assurer une continuité des jonctions présentes sur l'ensemble de la montre.It can also be provided that each of the links of the bracelet has a structure similar to that of the link ensuring the junction between the bracelet and the case of the watch, so as to ensure continuity of the junctions present on the whole watch.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaítront plus clairement à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit, faite en référence aux dessins annexés donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et dans lesquels:

  • la figure 1 représente une vue en perspective d'une montre-bracelet comportant des maillons selon l'art antérieur;
  • les figures 2a et 2b représentent une vue en coupe schématique au niveau du plan supérieur du premier élément du maillon de bracelet réalisé selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, ledit maillon étant relié à un boítier de montre;
  • la figure 2c représente une vue en coupe selon la ligne II-II de la figure 2a sans le boítier de montre;
  • les figures 3a et 3b représentent des vues respectivement similaires à celles des figures 2a et 2c pour un second mode de réalisation de l'invention;
  • les figures 4a et 4b représentent des vues en coupe schématiques au niveau du plan médian du maillon selon l'invention dans deux configurations différentes pour un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention;
  • la figure 4c représente une vue en perspective agrandie d'une pièce du maillon visible sur les figures 4a et 4b;
  • les figures 5a et 5b représentent des vues respectivement similaires à celles des figures 4a et 4b pour un quatrième mode de réalisation;
  • la figure 5c représente une vue en coupe schématique selon la ligne V-V de la figure 5a sans le boítier de montre, et
  • les figures 6a et 6b représentent des vues respectivement similaires à celles des figures 4a et 4b pour un cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention.
Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description which follows, given with reference to the appended drawings given by way of nonlimiting examples and in which:
  • FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of a wristwatch comprising links according to the prior art;
  • Figures 2a and 2b show a schematic sectional view at the upper plane of the first element of the bracelet link produced according to a first embodiment of the invention, said link being connected to a watch case;
  • Figure 2c shows a sectional view along line II-II of Figure 2a without the watch case;
  • Figures 3a and 3b show views respectively similar to those of Figures 2a and 2c for a second embodiment of the invention;
  • Figures 4a and 4b show schematic sectional views at the median plane of the link according to the invention in two different configurations for a third embodiment of the invention;
  • Figure 4c shows an enlarged perspective view of a part of the link visible in Figures 4a and 4b;
  • Figures 5a and 5b show views respectively similar to those of Figures 4a and 4b for a fourth embodiment;
  • FIG. 5c represents a schematic sectional view along the line VV of FIG. 5a without the watch case, and
  • Figures 6a and 6b show views respectively similar to those of Figures 4a and 4b for a fifth embodiment of the invention.

On a représenté sur la figure 1 une montre-bracelet 101 selon l'art antérieur comportant un bracelet 102 relié à un boítier de montre 103, ces derniers incluant tous deux une structure interne non visible recouverte d'un habillage en céramique 104. On constate sur cette figure que, de part et d'autre du boítier 103, des jeux, notés d1 et d2, sont apparents au niveau des jonctions entre ledit boítier et les premiers maillons 105 du bracelet 102.FIG. 1 shows a wristwatch 101 according to the prior art comprising a strap 102 connected to a watch case 103, the latter including both an invisible internal structure covered with a ceramic covering 104. It can be seen in this figure that, on either side of the housing 103, games, noted d1 and d2, are apparent at the junctions between said housing and the first links 105 of bracelet 102.

Ces jeux d1 et d2 proviennent, comme cela a été mentionné plus haut, des tolérances de fabrication des éléments d'habillage 104. Dans le cas de la montre 101 représentée ici, les éléments d'habillage du bracelet sont disposés sur la structure interne dans des positions fixes prédéterminées. De ce fait, les variations dimensionnelles des différents éléments d'habillage consécutifs entraínent l'apparition de discontinuités au niveau des jonctions les séparant, ce qui a pour conséquence fâcheuse, du point de vue de l'esthétique, de laisser visibles les moyens de fixation 106 du bracelet sur le boítier.These games d1 and d2 come, as mentioned above, from manufacturing tolerances of the covering elements 104. In the case of the watch 101 shown here, the bracelet covering elements are arranged on the structure internal in predetermined fixed positions. As a result, variations dimensions of the different consecutive covering elements lead to the appearance discontinuities at the junctions between them, which has the consequence unfortunate, from an aesthetic point of view, to leave visible the fixing means 106 of the bracelet on the case.

La présente invention permet de résoudre le problème susmentionné par l'utilisation d'un maillon présentant une structure particulière pour établir la connexion mécanique entre le bracelet et le boítier.The present invention solves the aforementioned problem by the use of a link with a particular structure to establish the connection mechanical between the bracelet and the case.

Les figures 2a, 2b et 2c représentent un tel maillon 1 selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention. Le maillon 1 comporte un premier élément creux 2, de forme générale parallélépipédique, représenté ici avec un fond 3 dans sa partie inférieure et fermé par un couvercle 4. A titre d'exemple, des vis 5 ont été prévues pour solidariser le couvercle 4 au premier élément 2, les têtes de vis étant disposées en butée contre le couvercle tandis que leurs tiges filetées coopèrent avec des trous taraudés 6 du premier élément.Figures 2a, 2b and 2c show such a link 1 according to a first mode for carrying out the invention. The link 1 comprises a first hollow element 2, of general parallelepiped shape, shown here with a bottom 3 in its part lower and closed by a cover 4. By way of example, screws 5 have been provided to secure the cover 4 to the first element 2, the screw heads being arranged in abutment against the cover while their threaded rods cooperate with holes tapped 6 of the first element.

Le premier élément 2 comporte une ouverture 7, de préférence sensiblement circulaire, au centre de l'une 8 de ses parois de façon à permettre le passage d'une partie allongée d'un second élément 9 au travers de ladite paroi 8. Le premier élément 2 comporte en outre des moyens de fixation 10 au maillon suivant, de type courant tel que des gonds comme représenté sur les figures, disposés sur la paroi 11 du premier élément 1 opposée à ladite paroi 8 et utilisés en combinaison avec une barrette (non représentée) de type courant.The first element 2 has an opening 7, preferably substantially circular, in the center of one 8 of its walls so as to allow the passage of a elongated part of a second element 9 through said wall 8. The first element 2 further comprises means 10 for fixing to the next link, of the current type such as hinges as shown in the figures, arranged on the wall 11 of the first element 1 opposite said wall 8 and used in combination with a bar (not shown) of current type.

On peut noter que le maillon décrit ci-après peut être utilisé non seulement pour attacher un bracelet au boítier d'une montre, tel que représenté ici, mais également pour réaliser l'intégralité d'un bracelet de montre. Dans la seconde alternative, il est bien entendu que les moyens de fixation 10 peuvent également servir à établir la connexion mécanique avec des moyens d'attache du bracelet tel qu'une boucle déployante.It should be noted that the link described below can be used not only to attach a bracelet to the case of a watch, as shown here, but also to make an entire watch strap. In the second alternative, it is understood that the fixing means 10 can also serve to establish the mechanical connection with means of attachment of the bracelet such than a folding clasp.

Le second élément 9 présente une forme globale allongée, une première de ses extrémités 12 étant logée à l'intérieur du premier élément creux 2, tandis que la seconde extrémité 13 est située à l'extérieur. La première extrémité 12 s'étend perpendiculairement à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, dans une forme rectangulaire dont les dimensions sont légèrement inférieures aux dimensions intérieures du premier élément. Le second élément comporte en outre une tige 14, de section sensiblement circulaire et légèrement plus petite que l'ouverture 7. Ladite tige 14, partant du centre de la première extrémité 12, traverse ladite ouverture 7, jusqu'à une région présentant une section plus importante définissant ladite seconde extrémité 13. La seconde extrémité 13 comporte un alésage 15 remplissant la fonction de gond, ou moyen de fixation, susceptible de recevoir une barrette pour établir la liaison du second élément 9, et donc du maillon 1, au boítier de la montre (partiellement schématisé).The second element 9 has an elongated overall shape, a first of its ends 12 being housed inside the first hollow element 2, while the second end 13 is located outside. The first end 12 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, in a shape rectangular whose dimensions are slightly smaller than the dimensions interior of the first element. The second element further comprises a rod 14, of substantially circular section and slightly smaller than the opening 7. Said rod 14, starting from the center of the first end 12, passes through said opening 7, up to a region having a larger section defining said second end 13. The second end 13 has a bore 15 filling the hinge function, or fixing means, capable of receiving a bar for establish the connection of the second element 9, and therefore of the link 1, to the watch case (partially shown).

Dans le cas d'un bracelet dont tous les maillons comportent une structure selon la présente invention, ledit alésage peut également permettre d'établir la connexion mécanique avec le maillon précédent, plus précisément avec lesdits moyens de fixation 10 du maillon suivant.In the case of a bracelet of which all the links have a structure according to the present invention, said bore can also make it possible to establish the mechanical connection with the previous link, more precisely with said links fastening means 10 of the next link.

On peut noter que, pour des raisons liées à l'assemblage du maillon, ledit second élément comporte deux parties distinctes dont la jonction est effectuée au niveau de la tige 14 au moyen d'une clavette 16 de type classique. Cette caractéristique structurelle indispensable permet en effet de monter ledit second élément 13 au travers de l'ouverture 7.It can be noted that, for reasons related to the assembly of the link, said second element has two separate parts whose junction is made at the level of the rod 14 by means of a key 16 of the conventional type. This essential structural characteristic makes it possible to mount said second element 13 through the opening 7.

Un dispositif mécanique particulier, conformément à l'invention, est logé dans le premier élément creux 2. Plus précisément, deux ressorts hélicoïdaux 17 sont interposés, dans le premier élément creux 2, entre la première extrémité 12 du second élément et la paroi 8 du premier élément, de part et d'autre de la tige 14. Lorsque le second élément 9 est disposé de telle manière que sa première extrémité 12 est en appui contre la paroi 11 du premier élément, tel que représenté sur la figure 2b, les ressorts sont dans un état légèrement comprimé.A particular mechanical device, in accordance with the invention, is housed in the first hollow element 2. More precisely, two helical springs 17 are interposed, in the first hollow element 2, between the first end 12 of the second element and the wall 8 of the first element, on either side of the rod 14. When the second element 9 is arranged in such a way that its first end 12 bears against the wall 11 of the first element, as shown in the figure 2b, the springs are in a slightly compressed state.

Le maillon comporte en outre un troisième élément principal 18 qui assure une fonction d'habillage. Ce troisième élément d'habillage 18 présente, dans l'exemple représenté, une forme globalement parallélépipédique creuse et est de préférence réalisé en céramique. Les dimensions internes dudit troisième élément 18 sont sensiblement supérieures aux dimensions externes du premier élément 2 et une de ses parois 19 est entièrement ouverte, de manière à pouvoir loger ledit premier élément 2 à l'intérieur du troisième élément 18. D'autre part, la paroi opposée 20 à ladite paroi 19 comporte une ouverture 21 de dimensions sensiblement supérieures à celles de la seconde extrémité 13 du second élément 9 de manière à laisser libre un passage pour celui-ci. Par conséquent, lorsque le maillon 1 est assemblé, le troisième élément d'habillage 18 recouvre au moins partiellement les premier et second éléments.The link further comprises a third main element 18 which provides a dressing function. This third covering element 18 has, in the example shown, a generally rectangular hollow shape and is preferably made of ceramic. The internal dimensions of said third element 18 are substantially greater than the external dimensions of the first element 2 and one of its walls 19 is fully open, so as to be able to accommodate said first element 2 inside the third element 18. On the other hand, the opposite wall 20 to said wall 19 has an opening 21 of dimensions substantially greater than those of the second end 13 of the second element 9 so as to leave free a passage for this one. Therefore, when link 1 is assembled, the third covering element 18 at least partially covers the first and second elements.

Dans l'exemple représenté sur les figures, la structure du maillon 1 est telle que le premier élément 2 est intégralement recouvert par ledit troisième élément d'habillage 18.In the example shown in the figures, the structure of link 1 is such that the first element 2 is completely covered by said third element dressing 18.

On constate que dans la mesure où les ressorts 17 s'appuient contre la première extrémité 12 du second élément 9, ils ont tendance à entraíner une translation dudit second élément 9 dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet. Plus exactement, les ressorts 17 exercent une force de rappel sur le second élément 9, symbolisée par les flèches référencées F sur la figure 2a, de façon à en rapprocher la seconde extrémité 13 vers le premier élément 2. La connexion mécanique du maillon 1 avec le boítier 22 de la montre étant effectuée au niveau de ladite seconde extrémité 13, le résultat obtenu par le fonctionnement de la structure décrite ci-dessus est le rapprochement mutuel dudit boítier 22 de montre et du maillon 1, jusqu'à ce que l'élément d'habillage du boítier 22 et le troisième élément d'habillage 18 du maillon se trouvent en butée l'un contre l'autre. On obtient alors, dans une telle configuration, une jonction entre ledit maillon 1 et ledit boítier 22 qui ne présente pas de discontinuité, ce qui est avantageux du point de vue esthétique.It can be seen that to the extent that the springs 17 bear against the first end 12 of the second element 9, they tend to cause a translation of said second element 9 in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. More exactly, the springs 17 exert a restoring force on the second element 9, symbolized by the arrows referenced F in FIG. 2a, so as to bring the second end 13 towards the first element 2. The mechanical connection of the link 1 with the case 22 of the watch being performed at said second end 13, the result obtained by the operation of the structure described above is the mutual approximation of said watch case 22 and the link 1, until the covering element of the housing 22 and the third covering element 18 of the link find themselves in abutment against each other. We then obtain, in such a configuration, a junction between said link 1 and said housing 22 which does not have any discontinuity, which is advantageous from an aesthetic point of view.

On peut noter qu'apparaissent des éléments structurels supplémentaires sur les figures 2a, 2b et 2c, qui ont été représentés à titre d'exemple non limitatif.It can be noted that additional structural elements appear on Figures 2a, 2b and 2c, which have been shown by way of non-limiting example.

On a en effet prévu de rendre l'intérieur du premier élément du maillon étanche pour, dans un premier temps, protéger le mécanisme de rappel de l'humidité ou de poussières pouvant venir de l'environnement extérieur. On peut par ailleurs prévoir de mettre à profit le volume intérieur disponible du premier élément pour y disposer des composants électroniques ou une pile par exemple. Dans ce but, un joint plat 23, visible sur la figure 2c, est interposé entre la surface supérieure du premier élément 2 et le couvercle 4 le fermant. En outre, une gorge annulaire 24 est ménagée dans la paroi du premier élément 2, dans l'ouverture 7, permettant d'y disposer un joint 25 du type O-ring, visible sur la figure 2c, assurant l'étanchéité entre le premier élément 2 et la tige 14 du second élément 9.We have indeed planned to make the interior of the first element of the link waterproof to initially protect the return mechanism from humidity or dust that may come from the outside environment. We can also plan to take advantage of the available interior volume of the first element to have electronic components or a battery for example. For this purpose, a joint flat 23, visible in FIG. 2c, is interposed between the upper surface of the first element 2 and the cover 4 closing it. In addition, an annular groove 24 is provided. in the wall of the first element 2, in the opening 7, allowing it to have a seal 25 of the O-ring type, visible in FIG. 2c, ensuring the seal between the first element 2 and the rod 14 of the second element 9.

Cette caractéristique supplémentaire ne constituant pas le coeur de l'invention et étant connue de l'art antérieur ne sera pas détaillée davantage dans la présente demande.This additional characteristic does not constitute the core of the invention and being known from the prior art will not be detailed further in the present request.

Dans la description détaillée qui suit, les éléments structurels déjà décrits ci-dessus portent les mêmes numéros de référence que sur les figures 2a à 2c pour faciliter la compréhension de l'invention.In the detailed description which follows, the structural elements already described above bear the same reference numbers as in FIGS. 2a to 2c for facilitate understanding of the invention.

Les figures 3a et 3b représentent une variante du mode de réalisation qui vient d'être décrit. En effet, la seule différence distinguant ces deux variantes se situe au niveau de la nature du dispositif mécanique employé pour exercer la force de rappel sur le second élément 9. On constate sur la figure 3a que les ressorts 17 ont été remplacés chacun par un bloc 26 de forme parallélépipédique, de préférence réalisé en caoutchouc ou en tout autre élastomère. Les blocs 26 sont représentés dans un état comprimé sur la figure 3a, donc dans une configuration telle qu'ils exercent une force de rappel sur le second élément 9 de manière à entraíner un rapprochement mutuel du boítier 22 de montre et du maillon 1. Il peut être prévu qu'en outre lesdits blocs 26 ne sont pas libres dans le premier élément 2, mais qu'ils viennent d'une seule pièce avec le joint plat 23, tel que visible sur la figure 3b. Ainsi, la stabilité de leur position dans le premier élément 2 et donc le bon fonctionnement du dispositif mécanique de rappel sont assurés.Figures 3a and 3b show a variant of the embodiment which comes to be described. Indeed, the only difference distinguishing these two variants is located at level of the nature of the mechanical device used to exert the restoring force on the second element 9. It can be seen in FIG. 3a that the springs 17 have been each replaced by a block 26 of parallelepiped shape, preferably made made of rubber or any other elastomer. The blocks 26 are represented in a compressed state in FIG. 3a, therefore in a configuration such that they exert a restoring force on the second element 9 so as to bring together mutual watch case 22 and link 1. It can be provided that in addition said blocks 26 are not free in the first element 2, but they come from a single piece with the flat seal 23, as visible in Figure 3b. So the stability of their position in the first element 2 and therefore the proper functioning of the device mechanical return are ensured.

Le fonctionnement de l'invention selon ce mode de réalisation est le même que pour le mode de réalisation décrit précédemment, de même que le résultat obtenu.The operation of the invention according to this embodiment is the same as for the embodiment described above, as well as the result obtained.

Les modes de réalisation suivants sont basés sur un fonctionnement différent de ce qui précède, dans la mesure où le dispositif mécanique logé dans le premier élément 2 n'a plus pour fonction d'assurer une force de rappel sur le second élément 9 du maillon 1 mais un simple réglage.The following embodiments are based on different operation from the above, insofar as the mechanical device housed in the first element 2 no longer has the function of ensuring a restoring force on the second element 9 of link 1 but a simple adjustment.

Dans la variante représentée sur les figures 4a et 4b, les premier et second éléments présentent des formes différentes de celles précédemment décrites. Le second élément 9 du maillon 1 est ici réalisé d'une seule pièce comportant deux parties principales perpendiculaires l'une à l'autre, dont l'une définit la première extrémité 12 tandis que l'autre 27 porte la seconde extrémité 13. Ladite première extrémité 12 présente une forme générale de parallélépipède dont les deux arêtes orthogonales à la direction longitudinale du bracelet et situées du côté de la seconde partie principale 27 sont tronquées, de façon à définir deux plans inclinés 28. La seconde partie principale 27 s'étend, à partir du milieu de la première extrémité 12, dans une forme générale de parallélépipède allongé dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet. Elle comporte, à proximité de ladite première extrémité 12, une ouverture 29 la traversant dans le sens de la largeur et présentant une section oblongue. Elle comporte en outre, à l'opposé de ladite première extrémité 12, un alésage 15 remplissant la fonction de gond, ou moyen de fixation, et définissant la seconde extrémité 13 du second élément. Ledit gond 15 est susceptible de recevoir une barrette (non représentée) pour établir la liaison du second élément 9, et donc du maillon 1, au boítier 22 de la montre (partiellement schématisé).In the variant shown in Figures 4a and 4b, the first and second elements have different shapes from those previously described. The second element 9 of the link 1 is here produced in a single piece comprising two main parts perpendicular to each other, one of which defines the first end 12 while the other 27 carries the second end 13. Said first end 12 has a general shape of a parallelepiped whose two edges orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and situated on the side of the second main part 27 are truncated, so as to define two inclined planes 28. The second main part 27 extends, from the middle of the first end 12, in a general shape of a parallelepiped elongated in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. It comprises, near said first end 12, an opening 29 crossing it crosswise and having an oblong section. She further comprises, opposite said first end 12, a bore 15 fulfilling the function of hinge, or fixing means, and defining the second end 13 of the second element. Said hinge 15 is likely to receive a bar (not shown) to establish the connection of the second element 9, and therefore of the link 1, to the case 22 of the watch (partially shown).

Le premier élément présente, dans sa paroi 8, une ouverture 7 de section rectangulaire dont les dimensions sont sensiblement supérieures à celles de la seconde partie principale 27 du second élément 9. Ladite paroi 8 comporte en outre des évidements 30 au niveau de chacune de ses jonctions avec les flancs latéraux 31 du premier élément 2. Ces évidements 30 définissent ainsi des plans inclinés 32 dont les angles respectifs à la direction longitudinale du bracelet sont opposés à ceux des angles que présentent les plans inclinés 28, respectivement situés en vis-à-vis, de la première extrémité 12.The first element has, in its wall 8, an opening 7 of section rectangular whose dimensions are significantly larger than those of the second main part 27 of the second element 9. Said wall 8 further comprises recesses 30 at each of its junctions with the lateral flanks 31 of the first element 2. These recesses 30 thus define inclined planes 32 of which the respective angles to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet are opposite to those of angles presented by the inclined planes 28, respectively located opposite, of the first end 12.

Un desdits flancs latéraux 31 du premier élément comporte une ouverture cylindrique 33 dont la fonction sera décrite plus loin.One of said lateral flanks 31 of the first element has an opening cylindrical 33 whose function will be described later.

Une vis 34 est disposée à travers l'ouverture 29 du second élément 9, la tête 35 de ladite vis étant disposée en regard de l'ouverture cylindrique 33 pour être rendue accessible par un opérateur.A screw 34 is arranged through the opening 29 of the second element 9, the head 35 of said screw being disposed opposite the cylindrical opening 33 to be made accessible by an operator.

Deux tampons 36, 37 sont disposés sur ladite vis 34, de part et d'autre du second élément 9. De préférence, ces tampons 36, 37 sont réalisés en un élastomère dont le choix ne posera aucun problème à l'homme de l'art. Tel que visible sur la figure 4c représentant une vue en perspective du tampon 36, chacun desdits tampons comporte deux bases rectangulaires parallèles 38, 39 et quatre faces, dont deux faces opposées 40 sont perpendiculaires auxdites bases, les deux autres faces 41 étant inclinées par rapport à l'axe de la vis d'un angle de même valeur que lesdits plans inclinés 28 et 32 situés en regard. Les deux faces 41 présentent une forme rectangulaire tandis que les deux autres faces 40 sont en formes de trapèzes. Les tampons comportent en outre chacun un trou traversant 42, perpendiculaire auxdites bases en leur centre.Two pads 36, 37 are arranged on said screw 34, on either side of the second element 9. Preferably, these pads 36, 37 are made of an elastomer whose choice will not pose any problem to those skilled in the art. As seen on the FIG. 4c representing a perspective view of the pad 36, each of said pads has two parallel rectangular bases 38, 39 and four faces, two of which opposite faces 40 are perpendicular to said bases, the other two faces 41 being inclined with respect to the axis of the screw by an angle of the same value as the said inclined planes 28 and 32 located opposite. The two faces 41 have a shape rectangular while the other two faces 40 are in the form of trapezoids. The pads also each have a through hole 42, perpendicular to said bases in their center.

Un premier tampon 36, situé du côté de la tête 35 de la vis, comporte également un dégagement cylindrique 43 de dimensions telles que ladite tête 35 de la vis peut y être logée intégralement. Ledit dégagement cylindrique 43 et ledit trou traversant 42 présentent respectivement des dimensions sensiblement supérieures à celles respectivement de la tête 35 et de la tige de vis 34, de sorte qu'une rotation libre de la vis 34 dans le tampon 36 est possible.A first pad 36, located on the side of the head 35 of the screw, comprises also a cylindrical clearance 43 of dimensions such that said head 35 of the screw can be fully accommodated. Said cylindrical clearance 43 and said hole through 42 respectively have dimensions substantially greater than those of the head 35 and the screw rod 34 respectively, so that a rotation free of the screw 34 in the buffer 36 is possible.

Le deuxième tampon 37 comporte, dans son trou traversant, un taraudage coopérant avec le filetage de la vis 34 et est situé à proximité de l'extrémité de la tige de vis 34.The second buffer 37 has, in its through hole, a thread cooperating with the thread of the screw 34 and is located near the end of the rod screws 34.

On constate que pour passer de la configuration représentée sur la figure 4a à la configuration représentée sur la figure 4b, la vis 34 a été "serrée", autrement dit, on a tourné ladite vis dans le sens horaire. En effet, lorsque ladite vis 34 est tournée dans le sens horaire, le tampon 37 effectue une translation pour se rapprocher de la tête 35 de ladite vis 34. Dans la mesure où la position du tampon 36 par rapport à ladite vis 34 est fixe, la translation du tampon 37 vers la tête de vis 35 provoque un rapprochement mutuel desdits deux tampons 36 et 37. Ce rapprochement est rendu possible par un glissement des faces inclinées de chacun des tampons sur les plans inclinés 28 et 32 correspondants formant guides obliques pour lesdits tampons. Ledit glissement entraíne en outre un écartement mutuel de la première extrémité 12 du second élément 9 et de la paroi 8 du premier élément 2. Ledit écartement correspond à un rapprochement mutuel de la seconde extrémité 13 du second élément 9 et du premier élément 2, ce qui correspond également à un rapprochement mutuel du maillon 1 et du boítier 22, tel que cela apparaít sur la figure 4b.It can be seen that in order to go from the configuration shown in FIG. 4a to the configuration shown in FIG. 4b, the screw 34 has been "tightened", in other words, we turned said screw clockwise. Indeed, when said screw 34 is turned clockwise, the buffer 37 performs a translation to approach the head 35 of said screw 34. Insofar as the position of the buffer 36 relative to said screw 34 is fixed, the translation of the buffer 37 towards the screw head 35 causes a mutual reconciliation of said two buffers 36 and 37. This reconciliation is made possible by sliding the inclined faces of each of the buffers on the planes inclined 28 and 32 corresponding forming oblique guides for said pads. said sliding further causes a mutual spacing of the first end 12 of the second element 9 and the wall 8 of the first element 2. Said spacing corresponds to a mutual approximation of the second end 13 of the second element 9 and the first element 2, which also corresponds to a mutual rapprochement of the link 1 and the housing 22, as it appears in FIG. 4b.

Grâce au fonctionnement du dispositif mécanique décrit ci-dessus, on obtient une jonction continue entre le maillon 1 et le boítier 22 de la montre, ce qui constitue l'avantage esthétique recherché.Thanks to the operation of the mechanical device described above, one obtains a continuous junction between the link 1 and the case 22 of the watch, which constitutes the aesthetic advantage sought.

Le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures 5a à 5c fait également appel à l'utilisation d'une vis 34 logée dans le premier élément 2 du maillon 1. De même que dans le mode de réalisation précédent, ladite vis est disposée à travers une ouverture 29 du second élément, de section oblongue de plus grande largeur que dans le mode de réalisation précédent, et sa tête 35 est accessible à travers une ouverture 33 ménagée dans l'un des flancs latéraux 31 dudit premier élément. Toutefois, dans la présente variante, l'extrémité 44 de la tige filetée de la vis 34 est logée dans un trou taraudé 45, pratiqué dans le flanc latéral 31 du premier élément opposé à celui comportant l'ouverture 33.The embodiment shown in Figures 5a to 5c also uses when using a screw 34 housed in the first element 2 of the link 1. As well as in the previous embodiment, said screw is disposed through an opening 29 of the second element, of oblong section of greater width than in the mode of previous embodiment, and its head 35 is accessible through an opening 33 formed in one of the lateral sides 31 of said first element. However, in the present variant, the end 44 of the threaded rod of the screw 34 is housed in a hole tapped 45, made in the lateral flank 31 of the first element opposite to that with opening 33.

Pour compléter le dispositif mécanique de réglage qui vient d'être décrit, on note qu'une grande partie 46 du flanc latéral 31 comportant ledit trou taraudé 45, proche de la paroi 8 du premier élément, présente une épaisseur plus importante que la partie dudit flanc 31 la plus éloignée de ladite paroi 8. Ainsi, ladite partie 46 se trouve en contact avec le côté de la partie principale 27 du second élément située du même côté lorsque la vis 34 est en position serrée, tel que représenté sur la figure 5b.To complete the mechanical adjustment device which has just been described, we notes that a large part 46 of the lateral flank 31 comprising said tapped hole 45, close to the wall 8 of the first element, has a greater thickness than the part of said flank 31 furthest from said wall 8. Thus, said part 46 is found in contact with the side of the main part 27 of the second element located on the same side when the screw 34 is in the tight position, as shown in Figure 5b.

Pour effectuer le réglage des positions relatives du maillon 1 et du boítier de montre 22, la vis 34 est desserrée dans une position similaire à celle représentée sur la figure 5a. Dans une telle configuration, les forces de frottement intervenant entre la partie 46 du premier élément 2 et la seconde partie principale 27 du second élément 9 sont faibles. Ainsi, une translation du premier élément 2 par rapport au second élément 9, ou inversement, est rendue possible. On dispose alors le second élément 9 par rapport au premier 2 de telle manière que, lorsque le maillon 1 est monté au boítier de montre 22, le troisième élément d'habillage 18 est à fleur dudit boítier 22. La vis 34 est alors serrée jusqu'à ce que sa tête 35 arrive en butée contre la partie 27 du second élément 9, ce qui a pour effet de serrer le second élément 9 contre la partie 46 du premier élément 2. Dans cette configuration représentée sur la figure 5b, les forces de frottement entre les premier et second éléments 2, 9 sont si importantes qu'une translation de l'un de ces éléments par rapport à l'autre n'est plus possible.To adjust the relative positions of link 1 and the housing shows 22, the screw 34 is loosened in a position similar to that shown on Figure 5a. In such a configuration, the friction forces occurring between the part 46 of the first element 2 and the second main part 27 of the second element 9 are weak. Thus, a translation of the first element 2 relative to the second item 9, or vice versa, is made possible. We then have the second element 9 with respect to the first 2 in such a way that, when the link 1 is mounted on the watch case 22, the third covering element 18 is flush with said case 22. The screw 34 is then tightened until its head 35 abuts against part 27 of the second element 9, which has the effect of clamping the second element 9 against the part 46 of the first element 2. In this configuration shown in FIG. 5b, the friction forces between the first and second elements 2, 9 are so great that a translation of one of these elements relative to the other is no longer possible.

La montre-bracelet peut alors être assemblée sans que sa structure interne ne soit visible au niveau des jonctions entre le boítier 22 et les premiers maillons 1, situés de part et d'autre dudit boítier.The wristwatch can then be assembled without its internal structure is visible at the junctions between the housing 22 and the first links 1, located on either side of said housing.

Le maillon 1 selon un autre mode de réalisation, représenté sur les figures 6a et 6b, comporte également une vis 34 mais disposée ici dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet. Le premier élément 2 présente une forme simplifiée par rapport aux variantes précédentes. En effet, la forme générale de l'élément 2 est parallélépipédique et comporte un évidement 47, également de forme parallélépipédique, partant de la paroi 8, s'étendant sur toute la hauteur de l'élément 2 et sur la majeure partie de sa largeur. Le premier élément 2 comporte en outre une ouverture cylindrique 48 traversant le premier élément 2 à partir de sa paroi 11 jusqu'à l'évidement 47. Ladite ouverture 48 comporte, à partir de la paroi 11 et dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet, deux portions 49, 50 dont la première 49 présente un diamètre plus important que celui de la seconde portion 50 débouchant dans l'évidement 47.The link 1 according to another embodiment, shown in Figures 6a and 6b, also includes a screw 34 but arranged here in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. The first element 2 has a simplified form compared to previous variants. Indeed, the general shape of element 2 is parallelepiped and has a recess 47, also shaped parallelepiped, starting from the wall 8, extending over the entire height of the element 2 and over most of its width. The first element 2 further comprises a cylindrical opening 48 passing through the first element 2 from its wall 11 up to the recess 47. Said opening 48 comprises, from the wall 11 and in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, two portions 49, 50 of which the first 49 has a larger diameter than that of the second portion 50 opening into the recess 47.

Le second élément 9 comporte, à partir de sa première extrémité 12, une première portion 51 de section constante sensiblement inférieure aux dimensions de l'évidement 47, suivie d'une seconde portion 52 de section légèrement supérieure à celle de ladite première portion et se terminant par la seconde extrémité 13, de même section que la première portion. Le second élément 9 comporte en outre un trou taraudé 53 ménagé à partir de la première extrémité 12, dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet. The second element 9 comprises, from its first end 12, a first portion 51 of constant section substantially smaller than the dimensions of the recess 47, followed by a second portion 52 of section slightly greater than that of said first portion and ending in second end 13, likewise section as the first serving. The second element 9 also has a hole threaded 53 formed from the first end 12, in the direction longitudinal of the bracelet.

Le troisième élément d'habillage 18 comporte dans sa paroi 20 une ouverture 21 de section rectangulaire et dont les dimensions sont sensiblement supérieures à celles de la seconde portion 52 du second élément 9. En outre, la longueur de ladite seconde portion 52 est sensiblement égale à l'épaisseur de ladite paroi 20.The third covering element 18 has in its wall 20 an opening 21 of rectangular section and whose dimensions are substantially greater than those of the second portion 52 of the second element 9. In addition, the length of said second portion 52 is substantially equal to the thickness of said wall 20.

La vis 34 est disposée dans le maillon 1, de telle manière que sa tête 35 et une courte partie de sa tige sont logées dans l'ouverture cylindrique 48 du premier élément 2, la tête 35 étant en appui contre la jonction séparant les portions 49 et 50. Dans la présente variante, la tête 35 de ladite vis est accessible par la paroi 19 ouverte du troisième élément d'habillage 18. L'extrémité 44 de la vis 34 est vissée dans le trou taraudé 53 du second élément 9. Ainsi, la vis 34 est libre de tourner sur elle-même sans se déplacer par rapport au premier élément 2 alors que son degré de pénétration dans le second élément 9 peut être modifié par vissage ou dévissage.The screw 34 is arranged in the link 1, so that its head 35 and a short part of its stem are housed in the cylindrical opening 48 of the first element 2, the head 35 being in abutment against the junction separating the portions 49 and 50. In the present variant, the head 35 of said screw is accessible through the wall 19 open of the third covering element 18. The end 44 of the screw 34 is screwed in the tapped hole 53 of the second element 9. Thus, the screw 34 is free to turn on itself without moving relative to the first element 2 while its degree of penetration into the second element 9 can be modified by screwing or unscrewing.

Par conséquent, lorsque la vis 34 est vissée, respectivement dévissée, dans le second élément 9, sa première extrémité 12 se rapproche, respectivement s'éloigne, de la paroi 11 du premier élément 2. Dans la mesure où la seconde extrémité 13 du second élément est reliée au boítier 22 de la montre, ce dernier subit les mêmes mouvements que ceux décrits ci-dessus pour la première extrémité 12.Consequently, when the screw 34 is screwed, respectively unscrewed, in the second element 9, its first end 12 approaches, respectively moves away, of the wall 11 of the first element 2. Insofar as the second end 13 of the second element is connected to the case 22 of the watch, the latter undergoes the same movements as those described above for the first end 12.

On obtient donc, par cette structure relativement simple, une possibilité de réglage fin de la position du boítier 22 par rapport au maillon 1, corrigeant toute discontinuité entre ces deux éléments susceptible de survenir du fait du procédé de fabrication utilisé pour la réalisation de leurs habillages respectifs.We thus obtain, by this relatively simple structure, a possibility of fine adjustment of the position of the housing 22 relative to the link 1, correcting any discontinuity between these two elements likely to occur due to the process of manufacturing used for the realization of their respective skins.

On peut évidemment envisager de réaliser par exemple le premier élément 2 avec une forme plus complexe, notamment en prévoyant une zone creuse et des moyens pour rendre ladite zone creuse étanche par rapport à l'environnement extérieur, afin de pouvoir y loger des composants électroniques.We can obviously consider making for example the first element 2 with a more complex shape, in particular by providing a hollow area and means for sealing said hollow zone in relation to the environment outside, in order to be able to house electronic components.

La description qui précède correspond à des modes de réalisation préférés de l'invention et ne saurait en aucun cas être considérée comme limitative, en ce qui concerne plus particulièrement la forme décrite pour les différents éléments structurels composant le maillon selon l'invention. De même, l'homme de l'art est capable d'adapter sans difficulté les dimensions des divers éléments structurels en fonction de la nature de la céramique employée, par exemple, pour construire le dispositif mécanique avec suffisamment de débattement pour pouvoir obtenir des jonctions continues entre les différents éléments d'habillage de la montre.The foregoing description corresponds to preferred embodiments of the invention and can in no way be considered as limiting, with regard to relates more particularly to the shape described for the various elements structural components of the link according to the invention. Likewise, those skilled in the art are able to easily adapt the dimensions of the various structural elements in depending on the nature of the ceramic used, for example, to build the mechanical device with sufficient clearance to be able to obtain continuous junctions between the different elements of the watch cover.

Claims (20)

Maillon (1), prévu pour relier un bracelet au boítier (22) d'une montre, ledit boítier (22) comportant un élément d'habillage qui définit au moins partiellement les limites du boítier (22) dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet, cet élément d'habillage étant obtenu par un procédé incluant une étape de frittage, caractérisé en ce que ledit maillon (1) comportant un premier élément (2) creux muni de moyens de fixation au bracelet (10), un second élément (9) dont une partie (12) est imbriquée dans ledit premier élément (2) et portant des moyens de fixation (13, 15) au boítier (22) de la montre et un troisième élément externe d'habillage (18), solidaire dudit premier élément (2) et recouvrant au moins partiellement ledit second élément (9) du côté desdits moyens de fixation au boítier (22), et en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif mécanique (17, 26, 29, 34, 36, 37, 53) permettant une translation du premier élément (2) relativement au second élément (9) dans la direction du bracelet de manière à plaquer ledit troisième élément d'habillage (18) contre ledit élément d'habillage dudit boítier (22) de la montre.Link (1), intended to connect a bracelet to the case (22) of a watch, said case (22) comprising a covering element which at least partially defines the limits of the case (22) in the longitudinal direction of the strap, this covering element being obtained by a process including a sintering step, characterized in that said link (1) comprising a first hollow element (2) provided with means for fixing to the bracelet (10), a second element (9) a part (12) of which is nested in said first element (2) and carrying fixing means (13, 15) to the case (22) of the watch and a third external covering element (18), integral with said first element (2) and covering at least partially said second element (9) on the side of said fixing means to the housing (22), and in that it comprises a mechanical device (17, 26, 29, 34, 36, 37, 53 ) allowing a translation of the first element (2) relative to the second element (9) in the direction of the bracelet so as to press said third covering element (18) against said covering element of said case (22) of the watch. Maillon (1) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que ledit troisième élément d'habillage (18) présente des dimensions longitudinales supérieures à 1 centimètre et en ce que celui-ci est également obtenu par un procédé incluant une étape de frittage.Link (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said third covering element (18) has longitudinal dimensions greater than 1 centimeter and in that this is also obtained by a process including a sintering step. Maillon (1) selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce qu'une ouverture (7) est prévue dans une paroi (8) dudit premier élément (2) à travers laquelle s'étend une partie allongée dudit second élément (9) et en ce qu'une première extrémité (12) dudit second élément est logée à l'intérieur dudit premier élément et est couplée audit dispositif mécanique (17, 26, 29, 34, 36, 37, 53), tandis que la seconde extrémité (13) est située à l'extérieur dudit premier élément et porte lesdits moyens de fixation (13,15) au boítier (22) de la montre.Link (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an opening (7) is provided in a wall (8) of said first element (2) through which extends an elongated part of said second element (9) and in that a first end (12) of said second element is housed inside said first element and is coupled to said mechanical device (17, 26, 29, 34, 36, 37, 53), while the second end (13) is located outside said first element and carries said fixing means (13,15) to the case (22) of the watch. Maillon (1) selon l'une des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que ledit premier élément (2) est fermé par un couvercle amovible (4).Link (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said first element (2) is closed by a removable cover (4). Maillon (1) selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que ledit troisième élément (18) est en céramique.Link (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that said third element (18) is ceramic. Maillon (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que ledit premier élément (2) est logé à force et maintenu par friction dans ledit troisième élément (18).Link (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said first element (2) is force-fitted and held by friction in said third element (18). Maillon (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit dispositif mécanique (17, 26) comporte des moyens élastiques prévus pour exercer une force de rappel sur ledit premier élément (2) de manière à le rapprocher de ladite seconde extrémité (13) dudit second élément (9) et par conséquent à rapprocher ledit troisième élément (18) du boítier (22) de la montre.Link (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said mechanical device (17, 26) comprises elastic means provided for exerting a restoring force on said first element (2) so as to bring it closer to said second end (13) of said second element (9) and therefore to bring said third element (18) closer to the case (22) of the watch. Maillon (1) selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que ladite première extrémité (12) dudit second élément (9) comporte au moins une surface d'appui et en ce que lesdits moyens élastiques comportent au moins un ressort (17) disposé en butée d'une part contre ladite surface d'appui et d'autre part contre une surface interne dudit premier élément (2).Link (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that said first end (12) of said second element (9) comprises at least one bearing surface and in that said elastic means comprise at least one spring (17) arranged in abutment on the one hand against said bearing surface and on the other hand against an internal surface of said first element (2). Maillon (1) selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que ladite première extrémité (12) dudit second élément (9) comporte au moins une surface d'appui et en ce que lesdits moyens élastiques comportent au moins un bloc (26) réalisé en élastomère disposé en butée d'une part contre ladite surface d'appui et d'autre part contre une surface interne dudit premier élément (2).Link (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that said first end (12) of said second element (9) comprises at least one bearing surface and in that said elastic means comprise at least one block (26) made of elastomer disposed in abutment on the one hand against said bearing surface and on the other hand against an internal surface of said first element (2). Maillon (1) selon l'une des revendications 7 à 9, caractérisé en ce que des moyens (23, 25) sont prévus pour rendre étanche l'intérieur dudit premier élément (2).Link (1) according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that means (23, 25) are provided for sealing the interior of said first element (2). Maillon (1) selon la revendication 10, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens comportent un joint plat (23) interposé entre ledit premier élément (2) et ledit couvercle (4) et un joint (25) disposé dans ladite ouverture (7) du premier élément (2) de manière à être en contact permanent avec une partie dudit second élément (9).Link (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that said means comprise a flat seal (23) interposed between said first element (2) and said cover (4) and a seal (25) disposed in said opening (7) of the first element (2) so as to be in permanent contact with a part of said second element (9). Maillon (1) selon l'une des revendications 10 ou 11, caractérisé en ce que ledit premier élément (2) comporte en outre, à l'intérieur, des composants électroniques.Link (1) according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that said first element (2) further comprises, inside, electronic components. Maillon (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 3 ou 1, 2 et 4 à 6 lorsqu'elles dépendent de la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens mécaniques comportent des moyens de réglage (29, 34, 36, 37, 53) des positions relatives desdits premier (2) et second (9) éléments dans la direction du bracelet.Link (1) according to any one of claims 3 or 1, 2 and 4 to 6 when they depend on claim 3, characterized in that said mechanical means comprise adjustment means (29, 34, 36, 37, 53) relative positions of said first (2) and second (9) elements in the direction of the bracelet. Maillon (1) selon la revendication 13, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de réglage comportent notamment une pièce (34) couplée mécaniquement audit second élément (9), et en ce qu'une rotation de ladite pièce (34) est susceptible d'entraíner un déplacement dudit premier élément (2) par rapport audit second élément (9) dans la direction du bracelet.Link (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that said adjustment means comprise in particular a part (34) mechanically coupled to said second element (9), and in that a rotation of said part (34) is capable of cause movement of said first element (2) relative to said second element (9) in the direction of the bracelet. Maillon (1) selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que ladite pièce est une vis (34) logée dans un trou (29) ménagé dans ledit second élément (9), en ce que des tampons (36, 37) sont disposés sur ladite vis (34) de part et d'autre du second élément (9), ces tampons étant susceptibles d'être déplacés dans une direction perpendiculaire à celle du bracelet, l'un au moins desdits tampons (37) étant muni d'un filetage, en ce qu'au moins un guide oblique (28, 32) par rapport à la direction du bracelet est ménagé, pour chaque tampon (36, 37), sur ladite paroi (8) dudit premier élément (2) et/ou sur ladite première extrémité (12) dudit second élément (9), en ce que chaque guide oblique (28, 32) est disposé en butée contre le tampon (36, 37) correspondant, et en ce qu'une rotation de ladite vis (34) est susceptible de modifier la distance comprise entre lesdits deux tampons et donc les positions relatives desdits premier (2) et second (9) éléments.Link (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that said part is a screw (34) housed in a hole (29) formed in said second element (9), in that buffers (36, 37) are arranged on said screw (34) on either side of the second element (9), these pads being able to be moved in a direction perpendicular to that of the bracelet, at least one of said pads (37) being provided with a thread, in that at least one oblique guide (28, 32) relative to the direction of the bracelet is provided, for each pad (36, 37), on said wall (8) of said first element (2) and / or on said first end (12) of said second element (9), in that each oblique guide (28, 32) is disposed in abutment against the corresponding pad (36, 37), and in that a rotation of said screw ( 34) is likely to modify the distance between said two buffers and therefore the relative positions of said first (2) and second (9) elements. Maillon (1) selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que lesdits premier (2) et second (9) éléments présentent respectivement des surfaces latérales situées en vis-à-vis qui sont au moins partiellement en contact mutuel, ladite pièce étant une vis (34) traversant une ouverture (29) dudit second élément (9) laquelle présente une section oblongue allongée, l'extrémité filetée (44) de ladite vis (34) étant logée dans un trou taraudé (45) ménagé à travers ladite surface du premier élément (2) tandis que la tête (35) de la vis (34) est, en position serrée, en butée contre une face dudit second élément (9) opposée à ladite surface en contact avec le premier élément (2).Link (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that said first (2) and second (9) elements respectively have side surfaces located opposite which are at least partially in mutual contact, said part being a screw (34) passing through an opening (29) of said second element (9) which has an elongated oblong section, the threaded end (44) of said screw (34) being housed in a tapped hole (45) formed through said surface of the first element (2) while the head (35) of the screw (34) is, in the clamped position, in abutment against a face of said second element (9) opposite to said surface in contact with the first element (2). Maillon (1) selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que ladite pièce est une vis (34) dont la tête (35) est logée à libre rotation dans une paroi (11) dudit premier élément (2) opposée à ladite paroi (8) comportant une ouverture (7), tandis que l'extrémité filetée (44) est logée dans un trou taraudé (53) de ladite première extrémité (12) dudit second élément (9).Link (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that said part is a screw (34), the head (35) of which is freely rotatable in a wall (11) of said first element (2) opposite to said wall (8 ) comprising an opening (7), while the threaded end (44) is housed in a threaded hole (53) of said first end (12) of said second element (9). Bracelet de montre comportant deux brins ayant chacun deux extrémités, une première desdites deux extrémités comportant des moyens de fixation avec des moyens de fermeture dudit bracelet, la seconde extrémité étant reliée à un maillon (1) portant des moyens de fixation (13, 15) à un boítier (22) de montre, ledit boítier comportant un élément d'habillage qui définit au moins partiellement les limites du boítier (22) dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet, cet élément d'habillage étant obtenu par un procédé incluant une étape de frittage, caractérisé en ce que ledit maillon (1) comporte un premier élément creux (2) muni de moyens de fixation (10) à ladite seconde extrémité du brin correspondant, un second élément (9) dont une partie (12) est imbriquée dans ledit premier élément (2) et portant lesdits moyens de fixation (13, 15) au boítier (22) de montre, un troisième élément externe d'habillage (18) solidaire dudit premier élément (2) et recouvrant au moins partiellement ledit second élément du côté desdits moyens de fixation au boítier (22), et en ce que ledit maillon (1) comporte en outre un dispositif mécanique (17, 26, 29, 34, 36, 37, 53) permettant une translation du premier élément (2) relativement au second élément (9) dans la direction du bracelet de manière à plaquer ledit troisième élément d'habillage (18) contre ledit élément d'habillage dudit boítier (22) de la montre. Watch strap comprising two strands each having two ends, a first of said two ends comprising fixing means with means for closing said strap, the second end being connected to a link (1) carrying fixing means (13, 15) to a watch case (22), said case comprising a covering element which at least partially defines the limits of the case (22) in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, this covering element being obtained by a process including a step of sintering, characterized in that said link (1) comprises a first hollow element (2) provided with fixing means (10) at said second end of the corresponding strand, a second element (9) of which a part (12) is nested in said first element (2) and carrying said fixing means (13, 15) to the watch case (22), a third external covering element (18) integral with said first element (2) and reco at least partially opening said second element on the side of said fixing means to the housing (22), and in that said link (1) further comprises a mechanical device (17, 26, 29, 34, 36, 37, 53) allowing a translation of the first element (2) relative to the second element (9) in the direction of the bracelet so as to press said third covering element (18) against said covering element of said case (22) of the watch. Bracelet de montre selon la revendication 19, caractérisé en ce que ledit troisième élément d'habillage (18) présente des dimensions longitudinales supérieures à 1 centimètre et en ce que celui-ci est également obtenu par un procédé incluant une étape de frittage.Watch strap according to claim 19, characterized in that said third covering element (18) has longitudinal dimensions greater than 1 centimeter and in that this is also obtained by a process including a sintering step. Bracelet de montre selon la revendication 18 ou 19, caractérisé en ce que chacun desdits brins du bracelet comporte une pluralité de maillons présentant une structure similaire à celle desdits maillons (1) fixés au boítier (22) de la montre, le premier élément creux (2) de chacun de ces maillons comportant des moyens de fixation (10) au maillon précédent, le second élément (9) de forme sensiblement allongée de chacun de ces maillons portant des moyens de fixation (13, 15) au maillon suivant.Watch strap according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that each of said strands of the strap comprises a plurality of links having a structure similar to that of said links (1) fixed to the case (22) of the watch, the first hollow element ( 2) of each of these links comprising means of attachment (10) to the preceding link, the second element (9) of substantially elongated shape of each of these links carrying means of attachment (13, 15) to the following link.
EP01203226A 2001-08-29 2001-08-29 Link for wrist watch bracelet Expired - Lifetime EP1287758B1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE60123950T DE60123950T2 (en) 2001-08-29 2001-08-29 Link for watch strap
EP01203226A EP1287758B1 (en) 2001-08-29 2001-08-29 Link for wrist watch bracelet
AT01203226T ATE342676T1 (en) 2001-08-29 2001-08-29 LINKS FOR WATCH STRAP

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP01203226A EP1287758B1 (en) 2001-08-29 2001-08-29 Link for wrist watch bracelet

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1287758A1 true EP1287758A1 (en) 2003-03-05
EP1287758B1 EP1287758B1 (en) 2006-10-18

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ID=8180836

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EP01203226A Expired - Lifetime EP1287758B1 (en) 2001-08-29 2001-08-29 Link for wrist watch bracelet

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EP (1) EP1287758B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE342676T1 (en)
DE (1) DE60123950T2 (en)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2633775A1 (en) * 2012-02-29 2013-09-04 Montres Rado S.A. Hinged bracelet
EP2720092A1 (en) * 2012-10-10 2014-04-16 The Swatch Group Management Services AG System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case
CN103720141A (en) * 2012-10-10 2014-04-16 斯沃奇集团管理服务股份公司 System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR634132A (en) * 1927-05-10 1928-02-09 Bracelet with elements connected by hinges and its manufacturing method
US3857237A (en) * 1972-06-19 1974-12-31 A Brauchi Wristlet
GB2137475A (en) * 1983-02-10 1984-10-10 Citizen Watch Co Ltd Watch band
US5365753A (en) * 1991-12-31 1994-11-22 Montres Rado S.A. Bracelet with decorative elements carried on an inner chain

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR634132A (en) * 1927-05-10 1928-02-09 Bracelet with elements connected by hinges and its manufacturing method
US3857237A (en) * 1972-06-19 1974-12-31 A Brauchi Wristlet
GB2137475A (en) * 1983-02-10 1984-10-10 Citizen Watch Co Ltd Watch band
US5365753A (en) * 1991-12-31 1994-11-22 Montres Rado S.A. Bracelet with decorative elements carried on an inner chain

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2633775A1 (en) * 2012-02-29 2013-09-04 Montres Rado S.A. Hinged bracelet
JP2013180209A (en) * 2012-02-29 2013-09-12 Montres Rado Sa Hinged bracelet
US8763868B2 (en) 2012-02-29 2014-07-01 Montres Rado Sa Hinged bracelet
RU2611293C2 (en) * 2012-02-29 2017-02-21 Монтр Радо С.А. Swivel bracelet
EP2720092A1 (en) * 2012-10-10 2014-04-16 The Swatch Group Management Services AG System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case
CN103720141A (en) * 2012-10-10 2014-04-16 斯沃奇集团管理服务股份公司 System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case
EP2720093A1 (en) * 2012-10-10 2014-04-16 The Swatch Group Management Services AG System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case
US9004750B2 (en) 2012-10-10 2015-04-14 The Swatch Group Management Services Ag System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case
US9010593B2 (en) 2012-10-10 2015-04-21 The Swatch Group Management Services Ag System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case
CN103720141B (en) * 2012-10-10 2015-05-27 斯沃奇集团管理服务股份公司 System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE342676T1 (en) 2006-11-15
DE60123950T2 (en) 2007-06-14
DE60123950D1 (en) 2006-11-30
EP1287758B1 (en) 2006-10-18

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