EP2657795B1 - Attachment device of an interchangeable bracelet for timepieces - Google Patents

Attachment device of an interchangeable bracelet for timepieces Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2657795B1
EP2657795B1 EP13157295.0A EP13157295A EP2657795B1 EP 2657795 B1 EP2657795 B1 EP 2657795B1 EP 13157295 A EP13157295 A EP 13157295A EP 2657795 B1 EP2657795 B1 EP 2657795B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
previous
fact
push button
retaining stem
watch
Prior art date
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Application number
EP13157295.0A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2657795A2 (en
EP2657795A3 (en
Inventor
Christophe Chatelain
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Manufacture dHorlogerie Audemars Piguet SA
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Manufacture dHorlogerie Audemars Piguet SA
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Publication of EP2657795A2 publication Critical patent/EP2657795A2/en
Publication of EP2657795A3 publication Critical patent/EP2657795A3/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B37/00—Cases
    • G04B37/0008—Cases for pocket watches and wrist watches
    • 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
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B37/00—Cases
    • G04B37/14—Suspending devices, supports or stands for time-pieces insofar as they form part of the case
    • G04B37/1486—Arrangements for fixing to a bracelet

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a rapid attachment device for an interchangeable wristwatch for wristwatches, the device comprising a body serving as a pushbutton and being able to be slidably housed in a watchcase, the carrying body a retaining rod arranged parallel to the plane of the watch case and in the sliding direction of said body, so that the body is movable parallel to a longitudinal axis of said retaining rod.
  • the document US 5,914,913 discloses an interchangeable bracelet system using a pair of pivots housed in two hinges positioned laterally on the watch case and can be pulled by corresponding buttons so as to remove them from a corresponding housing arranged on a connecting element of the end of the bracelet, this connecting element being intended to be inserted between said hinges.
  • This system is quite difficult to integrate into most watch cases on the market, because requiring two buttons that must be pulled outward and, for the same reason, complicated to use while being unattractive.
  • the Swiss patent application CH 664 663 relates to a bracelet clasp having two push buttons arranged on either side of the clasp and each extended by a variable diameter axis, able to cooperate with two horns attached to the watch case and equipped with a slot allowing to slide the shaft into the horns when the push buttons are pushed, while the pins are blocked in the horns when the pushbuttons are released.
  • this system rests on the principle of two external buttons operated by pressure and therefore suffers from the same major disadvantage, namely a high risk of losing the bracelet by accidental actuation of the pushers.
  • this system does not overcome the other disadvantages mentioned above and, in particular, does not improve the aesthetics because adding an additional piece of considerable size in the form of the clasp.
  • the document CH 179 155 discloses two embodiments of a fastening device of an interchangeable strap.
  • the first embodiment uses a push-button mounted vertically with respect to the plane of the watch case and making it possible to block or release one end of a corresponding interchangeable strap, this end being in the form of a large form tab. special.
  • the second embodiment uses a locking pin rotatably mounted in the watch case and cooperating with tabs also of particular shape and arranged on the end of the bracelet.
  • the two devices proposed then require specific bracelets including in particular said tabs of specific shape, not allowing the use of most bracelets on the market, the second proposed device requires the addition of a tool such as a screwdriver to rotate 90 ° of the locking pin to allow removal or fixing the bracelet on the watch, which makes the use of such a bracelet interchangeable quite unsuitable.
  • a tool such as a screwdriver to rotate 90 ° of the locking pin to allow removal or fixing the bracelet on the watch, which makes the use of such a bracelet interchangeable quite unsuitable.
  • the object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the disadvantages of known devices and to achieve the aforementioned advantages, in particular to allow the realization of a quick coupling device of an interchangeable watch strap which is simple in its design and its use, reliable during its operation, as well as compact, robust and aesthetic, while reducing the production costs of the device and increasing the compatibility of the device with existing watch cases and wristbands.
  • the present invention proposes a quick coupling device of an interchangeable wristwatch for wristwatches of the aforementioned type, the device being distinguished by the features set forth in claim 1, as well as a wristwatch and a bracelet. corresponding interchangeable watch with such a device.
  • said body cooperates with a spring disposed substantially parallel to said retaining rod and exerting a prestressing force reminding the body serving as a push button in a rest position
  • said retaining rod has a particular shape having at least one predefined location along its longitudinal axis of reduced thickness relative to a reference thickness that the remainder of the retaining rod
  • the device comprises at least one attachment element adapted to be mounted at one end of said interchangeable wristband and having a slot of complementary shape to that of the retaining rod, the latter being adapted, depending on its position along said longitudinal axis, to cooperate with the the fastening elements so as to allow to attach or remove said interchangeable watch strap from the watch case.
  • the retaining rod comprises guide flats at at least one predefined location, preferably at two predefined locations, so that the guide flats are aligned with each other. slots of said fastening elements when the body serving as a push button is actuated and that the guide flats are at least partially offset relative to these slots when the body serving as a push button is in its rest position.
  • Said body serving as a push button is preferably arranged so as to have, in the rest position, an outer surface aligned and homogeneous with respect to the outer surface of the watch case in which it is intended to be integrated; which leads to a particularly safe and reliable operation of this kind of device, since an inadvertent actuation can almost be ruled out. Simultaneously, this arrangement leads to a particularly advantageous aesthetic of a wristwatch incorporating such a device, the push button being hardly visible on the watch case.
  • the present invention also relates to a corresponding watch case and an interchangeable watch strap.
  • the figure 1a is a schematic perspective view of an interchangeable strap mounted on a watch case using a quick coupler according to the present invention
  • the figure 1b is a perspective view similar to the figure 1a the interchangeable strap being removed from the watch case
  • the figure 1c shows an exploded perspective view of a quick coupler according to the present invention as well as a corresponding replaceable watch case and wristwatch
  • the figure 1d is a side view of the interchangeable strap of the figure 1a attached to a watch using the device according to the invention
  • the figure 1e shows a flat section along the line II indicated in the figure 1d through the quick coupler according to the present invention, respectively the watch case and the corresponding interchangeable watch strap, the device being in the rest position.
  • the figure 2a is a perspective view of an embodiment of the pushbutton body and the retaining rod of a quick coupler according to the present invention
  • the figure 2b shows an exploded perspective view of said body and said retainer rod prior to assembly
  • the Figure 2c shows an enlargement of zone A indicated in the figure 2a , some parts are illustrated in transparency for a better understanding
  • the figure 2d is a longitudinal section through an attachment member of a quick coupler according to the present invention, illustrating in particular the specific shape of the slot of said member.
  • the figure 3a schematically shows, in a side view, the quick coupler according to the present invention, respectively the watch case and the corresponding interchangeable watch strap, in their assembled state, when the quick coupler is in its rest position, some parts being illustrated in transparency for a better understanding
  • the figure 3b is a longitudinal section along the line II-II indicated in the figure 3a through the quick coupler according to the present invention
  • the figure 3c represents, by a side view similar to the figure 3a , the quick coupler according to the present invention, respectively the watch case and the corresponding interchangeable watch strap, when the quick coupler is in its actuated position, some parts being illustrated in transparency for better comprehension
  • the figure 3d shows a longitudinal section along the line III-III indicated in the figure 3c through the quick coupler.
  • a quick coupling device 1 of an interchangeable wristwatch 3 according to the present invention is intended to be integrated into a timepiece, in particular into a wristwatch 2.
  • this quick coupling device 1 can attach and detach a bracelet 3 of a watch case 2, l
  • the user can hardly notice from the aesthetics of a watch equipped with this device the difference between an interchangeable bracelet 3 and a conventional bracelet.
  • the figure 1c showing an exploded perspective view of such a quick coupler device 1 according to the present invention as well as a watch case 2 and a corresponding interchangeable watch strap 3, makes it possible to clearly visualize the main components of the device .
  • the watch itself is not important for the present invention and can be of all types, mechanical or electronic movement and analog or digital display, is only represented in the figures by the watch case 2.
  • the 1 attachment device comprises a body 1.1 serving as a push button and being adapted to be slidably housed in the watch case 2 of the corresponding wristwatch, the movement being exerted along an axis parallel to the bar to spring usually located on conventional watch cases.
  • This body 1.1 carries a retaining rod 1.2 arranged, in the assembled state with the watch case 2, parallel to the plane of the watch case 2 and in the sliding direction of said body 1.1.
  • the body 1.1 and the retaining rod are movable parallel to a longitudinal axis of said retaining rod 1.2, the latter replacing in some manner the usual spring bar.
  • the body 1.1 cooperates with a spring 1.3 disposed substantially parallel to said retaining rod 1.2 and exerting a prestressing force reminding the body 1.1 serving as a push button in a rest position.
  • a spring 1.3 can for example be attached to a free end of a pin 1.1.1 mounted on the body 1.1 as a push button and arranged parallel to said retaining rod 1.2.
  • said spring 1.3 is a helical spring.
  • the spring 1.3 is chosen so that its prestressing force makes it possible to avoid an inadvertent actuation of the body 1.1 serving as a push button.
  • the figures 1a and in particular 1e illustrate at the same time that said body 1.1 serving as a push button is arranged to have, in its rest position, an outer surface 1.1.2 aligned and homogeneous with respect to the outer surface 2.1.1 of the caseband 2.1 of the watch case 2 in which it is intended to be integrated.
  • the risk of an inadvertent actuation of the body 1.1 can be further reduced and this simultaneously gives a particularly advantageous aesthetic to the corresponding watch because the push button is integrated in a perfectly discrete manner.
  • the retaining rod 1.2 mounted on the body 1.1 has a particular shape and has at least one predefined location along its longitudinal axis of a reduced thickness 1.2.1 compared to a reference thickness 1.2.2 that the rest presents of the retaining pin 1.2.
  • the retaining rod 1.2 is formed by a rod of constant diameter and comprises guide flats 1.2.1.1 of a length representing a fraction of the length of said rod 1.2 at at least one predefined location along its longitudinal axis, preferably at two predefined locations.
  • the retaining rod 1.2 thus has a reduced thickness 1.2.1, while it has the reference thickness 1.2. 2 over the rest of its length, or even a thickness situated between these two extreme values over the length of the predefined places, but measured in a direction other than the direction perpendicular to the plane of the flats 1.2.1.1.
  • the body 1.1 has a blind hole adapted to receive one end of the retaining rod 1.2, the blind hole having a first indexing flat 1.1 .3 adapted to cooperate with a second indexing flat 1.2.1.2 located on said end of the rod 1.2, thus ensuring a precise orientation of the guide flats 1.2.1.1 relative to the body 1.1 once these two pieces are assembled, respectively a precise orientation of the guide flats 1.2.1.1 with respect to the watch case 2, for example with reference to the upper surface of this box 2 on its part housing the body 1.1, once the latter is introduced into 2.
  • this assembly can be performed by several methods, for example by welding, brazing, gluing or any other suitable method. It is also possible to manufacture the body 1.1 and the retaining rod 1.2 in one piece.
  • the retaining rod 1.2 further comprises a terminal element 1.2.3, visible for example at the figure 1c and on the flat cut of the figure 1e .
  • This terminal element 1.2.3 is mounted on the free end of the retaining rod 1.2, opposite its end fixed to the body 1.1 serving as a push button, and makes it possible to secure this body 1.1 against any detachment of the watch case 2.
  • case 2.1 of a watch case 2 corresponding comprises on each of its opposite lateral sides a housing 2.1.2 adapted to receive the body 1.1, the retaining pin 1.2, and the spring 1.3 of the fastening device 1.
  • the body 1.1, the retaining rod 1.2, and the spring 1.3 are introduced into the housing 2.1.2 from its side intended to receive the body 1.1.
  • the terminal element 1.2.3 is introduced into the housing 2.1.2 from its opposite side and fixed on the free end of the retaining rod 1.2, for example by screwing or any other suitable means, so as to block the body 1.1 in the housing 2.1.2 of the case 2.1 while allowing a translational movement of the body 1.1 following its actuation by the user.
  • This constellation is best seen at the figure 1e .
  • the exploded perspective view of the figure 1c and the flat cut of the figure 1e show that the attachment device 1 according to the present invention also comprises at least one attachment element 1.4 adapted to be mounted at an end 3.1 of an interchangeable watch strap 3.
  • a fastener element 1.4 has a slot 1.4 .1 of complementary shape to that of the retaining rod 1.2, so that the latter 1.2 is adapted, depending on its position along said longitudinal axis, to cooperate with the 1.4 or even the fastening elements so to allow to fix or remove said interchangeable wristwatch 3 from the watch case 2.
  • each fastening element 1.4 is formed by a groove 1.4.1.1 of a height substantially corresponding to the reduced thickness 1.2.1 of said retaining rod 1.2.
  • This groove 1.4.1.1 allows, in the actuated position of said body 1.1 serving as a push button, to let through said retaining rod 1.2 and opens to a through housing 1.4.1.2 of a diameter substantially corresponding to the reference thickness 1.2. 2 of said rod retaining 1.2, this through housing 1.4.1.2 being adapted to receive said retaining rod 1.2 in the rest position of said body 1.1 serving as a push button.
  • each fastener element 1.4 is arranged to receive a fixing means 3.2 of a watch strap 3, for example by having a hole 1.4.2 on the end of the attachment element 1.4 opposite. at its end comprising said slot 1.4.1, for mounting the fixing means 3.2 on this end.
  • the fixing means 3.2 may be constituted by a screw bar 3.2.1, 3.2.2, by a spring bar, by a screw, or any other suitable means.
  • the fastening element 1.4 itself is, preferably and as illustrated in the figures, made by a substantially rectangular parallelepipedic pad adapted to receive on its end, opposite the end having the slot 1.4.1, a screwed bar.
  • the body 1.1 may not have the pin 1.1.1, so that the spring 1.3 is mounted directly on said retaining rod 1.2, even if this configuration is less preferred, because the pin 1.1.1 allows, in addition to being used for mounting the spring 1.3, to guide the body 1.1 and to stabilize it during its translational movement .
  • the shape of the body 1.1 serving as a push button can be adapted to the desired size in its outer shape as well as the geometries allowing it to move and guide.
  • the retaining rod 1.2 can also be arranged differently. Indeed, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the guide flats 1.2.1.1 of a given length located at at least one predefined location along the longitudinal axis of the retaining rod 1.2, as described herein. above, are only one of several possibilities to achieve a predefined location along its longitudinal axis of reduced thickness 1.2.1 compared to a reference thickness 1.2.2 that the rest of the retaining rod presents. 1.2.
  • the retaining rod 1.2 will be equipped. one, two, three or more predefined locations of adequate length along its longitudinal axis of those parts of reduced thickness 1.2.1.
  • each fastening element 1.4 can take quite different forms without the device outside the scope of the present invention.
  • each fastening element 1.4 is preferably formed by a rectangular substantially parallelepipedic pad as shown in the figures.
  • this fastening element 1.4 by a single piece substantially T-shaped or H, the foot of the T, respectively one side of the H forming the end of the fastening element 1.4 comprising the even the slots 1.4.1 and the bar of the T, respectively the other side of the H forming the opposite end and having a recess adapted to receive a spring bar.
  • These alternative embodiments are particularly suitable for attaching an interchangeable strap 3 of leather, rubber, or a synthetic material and equipped with a conventional spring bar to a quick coupler 1 according to the present invention.
  • the quick coupling device 1 comprising a body 1.1 serving as a push button, a retaining rod 1.2, a spring 1.3, and even 1.4 fastening elements as proposed form a robust, secure, aesthetic, and easy manufacturing and use between the watch case 2 and the interchangeable bracelet 3, being more flexible enough in its arrangement to be adaptable to several forms of watch boxes and, in particular, to several types of bracelets.
  • the present invention also relates to a corresponding watch case 2 for wristwatches, suitable for cooperate with a quick coupling device 1 as described above.
  • the figure 1c shows that such a watch case 2 comprises, in general, a case 2.1, two opposite sides of which are arranged to receive an interchangeable watch strap.
  • the middle part 2.1 comprises on each of the two opposite lateral sides a housing 2.1.2 adapted to receive the body 1.1, the retaining rod 1.2, and the spring 1.3 of said quick coupling device 1 and at least one recess 2.1. 3 adapted to receive the 1.4 or even the attachment elements of said quick coupling device 1.
  • Said housing 2.1.2 adapted to receive the body 1.1, the retaining pin 1.2, and the spring 1.3 is located parallel to the plane of the box watch 2 and has a generally elongated shape whose longitudinal axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis of a spring bar that present conventional watch boxes.
  • a first portion of the housing 2.1.2 for receiving the body 1.1 is wider than a second portion of the housing 2.1.2 for receiving the retaining rod 1.2.
  • This second part passes through the middle section 2.1 in its entirety and has a shoulder forming a support for the end element 1.2.3 of the retaining rod 1.2, so that the fastening device 1 is, once mounted in the housing 2.1.2 of the case 2.1, secured in this housing 2.1.2 while allowing a movement in translation of the body 1.1 following its actuation by the user, as schematically illustrated in the figure 1e .
  • the exact shape of the housing 2.1.2 can vary and obviously corresponds to the shape of the body 1.1 and the retaining rod 1.2.
  • the caseband 2.1 of such a watch case 2 comprises at least one recess 2.1.3 adapted to receive the fastening elements or even 1.4, each recess 2.1.3 being oriented substantially perpendicular to the housing 2.1.2 and opening into the latter to give access to the movable retaining rod 1.2.
  • the location of the recesses 2.1.3 is chosen so that each portion of reduced thickness 1.2.1 of the retaining rod 1.2 appears, in the actuating position of the body 1.1, entirely in the recess 2.1.3 corresponding, while in the rest position, a portion of the retaining rod 1.2 having the reference thickness 1.2.2 appears in the recess 2.1.3 corresponding.
  • the number of recesses 2.1.3 formed in the case 2.1 depends on the desired number of fastening elements 1.4 or even the number of predefined places of reduced thickness 1.2.1 on the retaining rod 1.2, which which in turn mainly depends on the desired arrangement of the interchangeable straps 3 to be attached to this watch case 2. It is obvious that the aforementioned variants of the parts 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 forming the quick coupler 1 can be combined according to and according to the specific constraints present in a concrete case of a watch case 2 and an interchangeable bracelet 3.
  • the present invention also relates to an interchangeable wristwatch 3 arranged to be mounted on a quick coupling device 1 as described above.
  • the bracelet can be made of various materials, for example of any type of metal, such as steel, gold, titanium, or aluminum, leather, rubber, or even a synthetic material, such as plastic, and the appearance of the interchangeable strap 3 can be chosen at will.
  • the corresponding bracelet has, as visible for example to figures 1c and first , on its ends intended to be attached to the watch case 2 a suitable fixing means 3.2.
  • This fixing means may be constituted for example by a screw bar 3.2.1 having a nut 3.2.2, a spring bar, a screw, or any other similar means.
  • the figure 3a shows a side view of the quick coupling device 1 according to the present invention, respectively of the watch case 2 and the interchangeable watch strap 3 corresponding, in their assembled state, when the quick coupling device 1, in particular the body 1.1 serving as a push button, is in its rest position, and the figure 3b is a longitudinal section along the line II-II indicated in the figure 3a through the quick coupler 1.
  • These figures show, in particular on the zone B of the figure 3b , that the flats 1.2.1.1, respectively in general the parts of the retaining rod 1.2 having a reduced thickness 1.2.1, are at least partially offset relative to the slots 1.4.1 arranged on the fastening elements 1.4 when the 1.1 body serving as a push button is in its rest position.
  • the interchangeable strap 3 is therefore rigidly connected to the watch case 2 by means of the quick coupling device 1, while having a certain freedom of articulation about the longitudinal axis of the retaining rod 1.2.
  • the figure 3c represents a side view similar to the figure 3a of the quick coupling device 1, respectively of the watch case 2 and the corresponding interchangeable wristwatch 3, when the quick-coupling device, in particular the body 1.1 serving as a push button, is in its actuated position.
  • the figure 3d shows a longitudinal section along the line III-III indicated in the figure 3c through the quick coupling device 1, the spring 1.3 not visible in this figure being compressed following the actuation of the body 1.1 by the user, thus shifting the retaining rod 1.2 towards the inside of the housing 2.1.2 of the caseband 2.1.
  • the user can then orient the interchangeable strap 3 in said specific orientation mentioned above, namely in a direction such that the direction perpendicular to the plane of the guide flats 1.2.1.1 is substantially aligned with the normal in the plane of the slot 1.4.1 of the fastening elements 1.4, to release the interchangeable strap 3 and thus allow it to remove the interchangeable strap 3 of the quick coupler 1, respectively of the watch case 2, as well as to attach the same - or another interchangeable bracelet 3 of its choice to the watch case 2.
  • the retaining pin 1.2 can be mounted on the body 1.1, at the using the aforementioned first - 1.1.3 and second indexing flats 1.2.1.2 located on the body 1.1 respectively said end of the rod 1.2, having an orientation such as the guide flats 1.2.1.1 show the required orientation with respect to the slit 1.4.1 of the fastening elements 1.4 in a predefined position of the bracelet 3 with respect to the watch case 2, since it is this position which is visible for the user.
  • the longitudinal axis of the bracelet is parallel to a portion of the watch case, for example parallel to the upper surface of the side portion of the caseband 2.1 integrating the body 1.1.
  • the manufacturer can thus choose the additional level of security against any inadvertent removal of the bracelet 3 by correspondingly adapting the angle of orientation between the interchangeable strap 3 and the watch case 2 which allows the removal and attachment 3.
  • This measure reinforces the provisions mentioned previously taken at the level of the force of the prestressing spring 1.3 as well as the integration of the body 1.1 serving as a push button in the middle part 2.1 by aligning the outer surfaces 1.1.2, 2.1.
  • a release of the interchangeable strap 3 occurs only after a pressure on the body 1.1 by the user while the latter orients the bracelet 3 at a predefined angle with respect to the watch case 2, while a clearance accidental or accidental of the bracelet 3 of the watch case 2 can almost be excluded from the fact that the spring 1.3 recalls and maintains the body 1.1 or the retaining pin 1.2 movable in their rest position, an inadvertent actuation of the body 1.1 embedded in the middle part 2.1 is unlikely, and that a specific orientation of the bracelet 3 relative to the watch case 2 is necessary for its release, at least in the preferred embodiment of the device. In other, less preferred embodiments of the device, comprising, for example, a cylindrical rotating rod 1.2 with two different diameters, it is not necessary to orient the bracelet specifically to remove it, or even the to attach.
  • the quick coupling device according to the present invention can be declined in many variants. Due to the complexity of the device as well as the small volume occupied compared to similar devices of the prior art, the device is quite easy to produce industrially to reduce the production costs of such a fastening device fast, respectively of the watch equipped with this device. Moreover, the device allows simple, safe and reliable use.
  • a quick coupling device having the characteristics mentioned above is simply actuated by pressure, optionally by orienting the interchangeable strap in a specific direction, in order to allow removal or attachment of the bracelet, while an inadvertent actuation of the push button, respectively unintentional or accidental removal of the interchangeable strap can almost be excluded. Guiding the movement in translation by the body forming the push button and the two rods attached thereto and the absence of a complex kinematics make the operation of the device reliable.
  • the device has the important advantage that it is easier to integrate into existing timepieces than in systems of the prior art, without requiring too many adjustments or a major revision of the design of these parts.
  • the quick coupling device according to the present invention allows the user to change according to his tastes and / or given the conditions of use of his watch, the interchangeable strap attached to the watch case, intuitively and without having to have a particular tool or skill.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Adornments (AREA)
  • Electric Clocks (AREA)
  • Clamps And Clips (AREA)

Description

La présente invention a pour objet un dispositif d'attache rapide d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable pour montres bracelet, le dispositif comportant un corps servant de bouton poussoir et étant apte à être logé de manière coulissante dans une boîte de montre, le corps portant une tige de retenue agencé parallèlement au plan de la boîte de montre et dans la direction de coulissement dudit corps, de façon à ce que le corps est déplaçable parallèlement à un axe longitudinal de ladite tige de retenue.The present invention relates to a rapid attachment device for an interchangeable wristwatch for wristwatches, the device comprising a body serving as a pushbutton and being able to be slidably housed in a watchcase, the carrying body a retaining rod arranged parallel to the plane of the watch case and in the sliding direction of said body, so that the body is movable parallel to a longitudinal axis of said retaining rod.

Ce genre de dispositif est en principe connu, il existe même depuis de nombreuses années un grand nombre de dispositifs permettant de fixer un bracelet de montre de façon amovible sur une montre bracelet. La plupart de ces dispositifs sont pourtant trop compliqués de conception, nécessitent un outil pour effectuer le changement du bracelet, risquent un détachement par inadvertance du bracelet, ne peuvent pas être intégrés facilement et à échelle industrielle dans des boîtes de montres existantes, ou souffrent d'autres désavantages, comme simplement un aspect peu esthétique qui est pourtant assez important dans ce domaine.This type of device is in principle known, there is even for many years a large number of devices for fixing a watch strap detachably on a wristwatch. Most of these devices, however, are too complicated to design, require a tool to change the bracelet, risk inadvertent detachment of the bracelet, can not be integrated easily and on an industrial scale in existing watch cases, or suffer from other disadvantages, as simply an unattractive aspect which is nevertheless quite important in this field.

Par exemple, le document US 5,914,913 divulgue un système de bracelet interchangeable utilisant une paire de pivots logés dans deux gonds positionnés latéralement sur la boîte de montre et pouvant être tirés par des boutons correspondants de manière à pouvoir les enlever d'un logement correspondant agencé sur un élément de connexion de l'extrémité du bracelet, cet élément de connexion étant destiné à être inséré entre lesdits gonds. Ce système est assez difficile à intégrer dans la plupart des boîtes de montres se trouvant sur le marché, car nécessitant deux boutons qui doivent être tirés vers l'extérieur ainsi que, pour la même raison, compliqué à l'utilisation tout en étant peu esthétique.For example, the document US 5,914,913 discloses an interchangeable bracelet system using a pair of pivots housed in two hinges positioned laterally on the watch case and can be pulled by corresponding buttons so as to remove them from a corresponding housing arranged on a connecting element of the end of the bracelet, this connecting element being intended to be inserted between said hinges. This system is quite difficult to integrate into most watch cases on the market, because requiring two buttons that must be pulled outward and, for the same reason, complicated to use while being unattractive.

Des commentaires similaires s'appliquent au dispositif proposé dans la demande de brevet européenne EP 1 400 875 . D'une certaine manière, ce dispositif réalise un système fonctionnant de façon inverse au dispositif découlant du document US 5,914,913 , ceci en disposant d'une paire de pivots logés dans un seul gond positionné latéralement sur la boîte de montre, ces pivots pouvant être désengagés du bracelet interchangeable embrassant ce gond et recevant les ipivots dans des logements correspondants en poussant des boutons qui agissent sur les pivots à l'intérieur du gond, permettant ainsi un désengagement du bracelet. Étant probablement plus convenable à l'utilisation que le dispositif découlant du document US 5,914,913 , ce système ne surmonte pourtant pas les autres désavantages susmentionnés et, risque, de plus, d'être actionné par inadvertance par l'utilisateur de la montre, car les boutons sont opérés par pression au lieu d'une traction.Similar comments apply to the device proposed in the European patent application EP 1,400,875 . In a way, this device realizes a system operating inversely to the device resulting from the document US 5,914,913 , this having a pair of pivots housed in a single hinge positioned laterally on the watch case, these pivots can be disengaged from the interchangeable strap embracing the hinge and receiving the ipivots in corresponding housing by pushing buttons that act on the pivots inside the hinge, thus allowing a disengagement of the bracelet. Probably more suitable for use than the device derived from the document US 5,914,913 However, this system does not overcome the other disadvantages mentioned above, and may also be inadvertently actuated by the user of the watch, because the buttons are operated by pressure instead of traction.

La demande de brevet suisse CH 664 663 concerne un fermoir de bracelet disposant de deux boutons-poussoirs disposés de part et d'autre sur le fermoir et prolongés chacun par un axe à diamètre variable, aptes à coopérer avec deux cornes attachées sur la boîte de montre et équipées d'une fente permettant de glisser l'axe dans les cornes lorsque les boutons-poussoirs sont poussés, tandis que les axes sont bloqués dans les cornes lorsque les boutons-poussoirs sont relâchés. Comme le dispositif qui ressort du document EP 1 400 875 , ce système Repose sur le principe de deux boutons extérieurs actionnés par pression et souffre donc du même désavantage prépondérant, à savoir d'un risque élevé de perdre le bracelet par actionnement accidentelle des poussoirs. Simultanément, ce système ne surmonte pas les autres désavantages susmentionnés et, en particulier, n'améliore pas l'esthétique car ajoutant une pièce supplémentaire de taille considérable sous forme du fermoir.The Swiss patent application CH 664 663 relates to a bracelet clasp having two push buttons arranged on either side of the clasp and each extended by a variable diameter axis, able to cooperate with two horns attached to the watch case and equipped with a slot allowing to slide the shaft into the horns when the push buttons are pushed, while the pins are blocked in the horns when the pushbuttons are released. As the device that appears from the document EP 1,400,875 this system rests on the principle of two external buttons operated by pressure and therefore suffers from the same major disadvantage, namely a high risk of losing the bracelet by accidental actuation of the pushers. At the same time, this system does not overcome the other disadvantages mentioned above and, in particular, does not improve the aesthetics because adding an additional piece of considerable size in the form of the clasp.

Le document CH 179 155 divulgue deux formes d'exécution d'un dispositif de fixation d'un bracelet interchangeable. La première forme d'exécution utilise un bouton-poussoir monté verticalement par rapport au plan de la boîte de montre et permettant de bloquer ou libérer une extrémité d'un bracelet interchangeable correspondant, cette extrémité se présentant sous forme d'une grande languette de forme particulière. La deuxième forme d'exécution utilise un axe de blocage monté rotativement dans la boîte de montre et coopérant avec des languettes également de forme particulière et agencées sur l'extrémité du bracelet. Si les deux dispositifs proposés nécessitent alors des bracelets spécifiques disposant notamment desdites languettes de forme spécifique, ne permettant pas l'utilisation de la plupart de bracelets sur le marché, le deuxième dispositif proposé nécessite en plus l'utilisation d'un outil comme un tournevis pour effectuer la rotation de 90° de l'axe de blocage afin de permettre de retirer ou de fixer le bracelet sur la montre, ce qui rend l'utilisation d'un tel bracelet interchangeable assez peu convenable.The document CH 179 155 discloses two embodiments of a fastening device of an interchangeable strap. The first embodiment uses a push-button mounted vertically with respect to the plane of the watch case and making it possible to block or release one end of a corresponding interchangeable strap, this end being in the form of a large form tab. special. The second embodiment uses a locking pin rotatably mounted in the watch case and cooperating with tabs also of particular shape and arranged on the end of the bracelet. If the two devices proposed then require specific bracelets including in particular said tabs of specific shape, not allowing the use of most bracelets on the market, the second proposed device requires the addition of a tool such as a screwdriver to rotate 90 ° of the locking pin to allow removal or fixing the bracelet on the watch, which makes the use of such a bracelet interchangeable quite unsuitable.

Les documents JP 2006/296544 , US 5,416,953 , GB 2 264 628 , JPH 0 174 813 U , EP 0 682 300 , et CH 73 121 divulguent encore d'autres dispositifs de ce genre, sans pour autant que les systèmes proposés puissent surmonter tous les désavantages susmentionnés. Les solutions de l'art antérieur actuellement connues ne peuvent donc pas être considérées comme satisfaisantes en ce qui concerne tous les aspects cités ci-dessus.The documents JP 2006/296544 , US 5,416,953 , GB 2,264,628 , JPH 0 174 813 U , EP 0 682 300 , and CH 73 121 other devices of this kind are disclosed, without the proposed systems being able to overcome all the aforementioned disadvantages. The solutions of the prior art currently known can not therefore be considered satisfactory with respect to all the aspects mentioned above.

Il existe alors toujours le besoin de disposer d'un dispositif d'attache rapide d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable du genre susmentionné dont la construction est relativement peu complexe, dont le fonctionnement est sûr sans pour autant que l'utilisation soit fastidieux voire nécessite un outil, et qui peut être utilisé avec un grand nombre de boîtes de montre ainsi que de bracelets existants sur le marché. Par ailleurs, il est souhaitable et important que ces objectifs soient achevés tout en garantissant des coûts de production modérés ainsi qu'en offrant une esthétique attractive des montres intégrant ce dispositif.There is therefore still a need for a rapid attachment device of an interchangeable watch strap of the aforementioned kind whose construction is relatively uncomplicated, whose operation is safe without as long as the use is tedious or even requires a tool, and can be used with a large number of watch cases and existing bracelets on the market. Moreover, it is desirable and important that these objectives be completed while ensuring moderate production costs and by offering attractive aesthetics of watches incorporating this device.

Le but de la présente invention est donc de remédier aux inconvénients des dispositifs connus et de réaliser les avantages susmentionnés, notamment de permettre la réalisation d'un dispositif d'attache rapide d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable qui est simple dans sa conception et son utilisation, fiable lors de son opération, ainsi que peu encombrant, robuste et esthétique, tout en diminuant les coûts de production du dispositif et en augmentant la compatibilité du dispositif avec des boîtes de montres et des bracelets existants.The object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the disadvantages of known devices and to achieve the aforementioned advantages, in particular to allow the realization of a quick coupling device of an interchangeable watch strap which is simple in its design and its use, reliable during its operation, as well as compact, robust and aesthetic, while reducing the production costs of the device and increasing the compatibility of the device with existing watch cases and wristbands.

A cet effet, la présente invention propose un dispositif d'attache rapide d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable pour montres bracelet du type susmentionné, le dispositif se distinguant par les caractéristiques énoncées à la revendication 1, ainsi qu'une montre bracelet et un bracelet de montre interchangeable correspondants comportant un tel dispositif. En particulier, dans le dispositif selon la présente invention, ledit corps coopère avec un ressort disposé de façon sensiblement parallèle à ladite tige de retenue et exerçant une force de précontrainte rappelant le corps servant de bouton poussoir dans une position de repos, ladite tige de retenue a une forme particulière disposant à au moins un endroit prédéfini le long de son axe longitudinal d'une épaisseur réduite par rapport à une épaisseur de référence que présente le reste de la tige de retenue, et le dispositif comporte au moins un élément d'attache apte à être monté à une extrémité dudit bracelet de montre interchangeable et comportant une fente de forme complémentaire à celle de la tige de retenue, cette dernière étant apte, en fonction de sa position le long de ladite axe longitudinale, à coopérer avec le voire les éléments d'attache de façon à permettre d'attacher ou d'enlever ledit bracelet de montre interchangeable de la boîte de montre.For this purpose, the present invention proposes a quick coupling device of an interchangeable wristwatch for wristwatches of the aforementioned type, the device being distinguished by the features set forth in claim 1, as well as a wristwatch and a bracelet. corresponding interchangeable watch with such a device. In particular, in the device according to the present invention, said body cooperates with a spring disposed substantially parallel to said retaining rod and exerting a prestressing force reminding the body serving as a push button in a rest position, said retaining rod has a particular shape having at least one predefined location along its longitudinal axis of reduced thickness relative to a reference thickness that the remainder of the retaining rod, and the device comprises at least one attachment element adapted to be mounted at one end of said interchangeable wristband and having a slot of complementary shape to that of the retaining rod, the latter being adapted, depending on its position along said longitudinal axis, to cooperate with the the fastening elements so as to allow to attach or remove said interchangeable watch strap from the watch case.

Dans une forme d'exécution préférée du dispositif selon la présente invention, la tige de retenue comprend des méplats de guidage à au moins un endroit prédéfini, de préférence à deux endroits prédéfinis, de façon à ce que les méplats de guidage se trouvent alignés aux fentes desdits éléments d'attache lorsque le corps servant de bouton poussoir est actionné et que les méplats de guidage se trouvent au moins partiellement décalés par rapport à ces fentes lorsque le corps servant de bouton poussoir se trouve dans sa position de repos.In a preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention, the retaining rod comprises guide flats at at least one predefined location, preferably at two predefined locations, so that the guide flats are aligned with each other. slots of said fastening elements when the body serving as a push button is actuated and that the guide flats are at least partially offset relative to these slots when the body serving as a push button is in its rest position.

Par ces mesures, du fait qu'on n'utilise qu'un seul bouton poussoir, on obtient un dispositif simple d'utilisation qui dispose par ailleurs d'une conception particulièrement simple. La petite taille du dispositif permet son intégration dans un grand nombre de boîtes de montres existantes en prévoyant l'usinage d'un logement correspondant. De même, la présence des éléments d'attache permet la combinaison du dispositif avec de nombreux bracelets préexistants sans modifications importantes sur ces derniers.By these measures, because only one push button is used, an easy-to-use device is obtained that also has a particularly simple design. The small size of the device allows its integration into a large number of existing watch boxes by providing machining of a corresponding housing. Similarly, the presence of the attachment elements allows the combination of the device with many existing bracelets without significant changes on the latter.

Ledit corps servant de bouton poussoir est, de préférence, agencé de façon à présenter, dans la position de repos, une surface extérieure alignée et homogène par rapport à la surface extérieure de la boîte de montre dans laquelle il est destiné à être intégré, ce qui conduit à un fonctionnement particulièrement sûr et fiable de ce genre de dispositif, étant donné qu'un actionnement par inadvertance peut quasiment être exclu. Simultanément, cet agencement conduit à une esthétique particulièrement avantageuse d'une montre bracelet intégrant un tel dispositif, le bouton poussoir n'étant guère visible sur la boîte de montre.Said body serving as a push button is preferably arranged so as to have, in the rest position, an outer surface aligned and homogeneous with respect to the outer surface of the watch case in which it is intended to be integrated; which leads to a particularly safe and reliable operation of this kind of device, since an inadvertent actuation can almost be ruled out. Simultaneously, this arrangement leads to a particularly advantageous aesthetic of a wristwatch incorporating such a device, the push button being hardly visible on the watch case.

La présente invention concerne également une boîte de montre et un bracelet de montre interchangeable correspondants.The present invention also relates to a corresponding watch case and an interchangeable watch strap.

D'autres caractéristiques, ainsi que les avantages correspondants, ressortiront des revendications dépendantes, ainsi que de la description exposant ci-après l'invention plus en détail.Other features, as well as the corresponding advantages, will emerge from the dependent claims, as well as from the description which sets forth the invention in more detail.

Les dessins annexés représentent schématiquement et à titre d'exemple une forme d'exécution de l'invention.The accompanying drawings show schematically and by way of example an embodiment of the invention.

La figure 1a est une vue en perspective schématique d'un bracelet interchangeable monté sur une boîte de montre à l'aide d'un dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention; la figure 1b est une vue en perspective similaire à la figure 1a, le bracelet interchangeable étant démonté de la boîte de montre; la figure 1c montre une vue en perspective éclatée d'un dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention ainsi que d'une boîte de montre et d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable correspondants; la figure 1d est une vue de côté du bracelet interchangeable de la figure 1a, attaché à une montre à l'aide du dispositif selon l'invention; la figure 1e montre une coupe à plat le long de la ligne I-I indiquée dans la figure 1d à travers le dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention, respectivement la boîte de montre et le bracelet de montre interchangeable correspondants, le dispositif étant dans la position de repos.The figure 1a is a schematic perspective view of an interchangeable strap mounted on a watch case using a quick coupler according to the present invention; the figure 1b is a perspective view similar to the figure 1a the interchangeable strap being removed from the watch case; the figure 1c shows an exploded perspective view of a quick coupler according to the present invention as well as a corresponding replaceable watch case and wristwatch; the figure 1d is a side view of the interchangeable strap of the figure 1a attached to a watch using the device according to the invention; the figure 1e shows a flat section along the line II indicated in the figure 1d through the quick coupler according to the present invention, respectively the watch case and the corresponding interchangeable watch strap, the device being in the rest position.

La figure 2a représente une vue en perspective d'une forme d'exécution du corps servant de bouton poussoir ainsi que de la tige de retenue d'un dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention; la figure 2b montre une vue en perspective éclatée dudit corps et de ladite tige de retenue avant leur assemblage; la figure 2c montre un agrandissement de la zone A indiquée dans la figure 2a, quelques parties étant illustrées en transparence pour une meilleure compréhension; la figure 2d est une coupe longitudinale à travers un élément d'attache d'un dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention, illustrant en particulier la forme spécifique de la fente dudit élément.The figure 2a is a perspective view of an embodiment of the pushbutton body and the retaining rod of a quick coupler according to the present invention; the figure 2b shows an exploded perspective view of said body and said retainer rod prior to assembly; the Figure 2c shows an enlargement of zone A indicated in the figure 2a , some parts are illustrated in transparency for a better understanding; the figure 2d is a longitudinal section through an attachment member of a quick coupler according to the present invention, illustrating in particular the specific shape of the slot of said member.

La figure 3a représente de façon schématique, par une vue de côté, le dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention, respectivement la boîte de montre et le bracelet de montre interchangeable correspondants, dans leur état assemblé, lorsque le dispositif d'attache rapide se trouve dans sa position de repos, quelques parties étant illustrées en transparence pour une meilleure compréhension; la figure 3b est une coupe longitudinale le long de la ligne II-II indiquée dans la figure 3a à travers le dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention; la figure 3c représente, par une vue de côté similaire à la figure 3a, le dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention, respectivement la boîte de montre et le bracelet de montre interchangeable correspondants, lorsque le dispositif d'attache rapide se trouve dans sa position d'actionnement, quelques parties étant illustrées en transparence pour une meilleure compréhension; la figure 3d montre une coupe longitudinale le long de la ligne III-III indiquée dans la figure 3c à travers le dispositif d'attache rapide.The figure 3a schematically shows, in a side view, the quick coupler according to the present invention, respectively the watch case and the corresponding interchangeable watch strap, in their assembled state, when the quick coupler is in its rest position, some parts being illustrated in transparency for a better understanding; the figure 3b is a longitudinal section along the line II-II indicated in the figure 3a through the quick coupler according to the present invention; the figure 3c represents, by a side view similar to the figure 3a , the quick coupler according to the present invention, respectively the watch case and the corresponding interchangeable watch strap, when the quick coupler is in its actuated position, some parts being illustrated in transparency for better comprehension; the figure 3d shows a longitudinal section along the line III-III indicated in the figure 3c through the quick coupler.

L'invention sera maintenant décrite en détail en référence aux dessins annexés illustrant à titre d'exemple une forme d'exécution de l'invention.The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating by way of example an embodiment of the invention.

Un dispositif d'attache rapide 1 d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable 3 selon la présente invention est destiné à être intégré dans une pièce d'horlogerie, notamment dans une montre bracelet 2. Tel que cela est illustré schématiquement et à titre d'exemple dans les vues en perspective des figures 1a et 1b illustrant un bracelet interchangeable 3 monté sur une boîte de montre 2 à l'aide d'un dispositif d'attache rapide 1 selon la présente invention, respectivement le même bracelet dans son état démonté de la boîte de montre, ce dispositif d'attache rapide 1 permet d'attacher et de détacher un bracelet 3 d'une boîte de montre 2, l'utilisateur ne pouvant quasiment pas remarquer au vu de l'esthétique d'une montre équipée de ce dispositif la différence entre un bracelet interchangeable 3 et un bracelet conventionnel.A quick coupling device 1 of an interchangeable wristwatch 3 according to the present invention is intended to be integrated into a timepiece, in particular into a wristwatch 2. As schematically illustrated and by way of example in the perspective views of Figures 1a and 1b illustrating an interchangeable bracelet 3 mounted on a watch case 2 using a device 1 of the present invention, respectively the same bracelet in its disassembled state of the watch case, this quick coupling device 1 can attach and detach a bracelet 3 of a watch case 2, l The user can hardly notice from the aesthetics of a watch equipped with this device the difference between an interchangeable bracelet 3 and a conventional bracelet.

La figure 1c, montrant une vue en perspective éclatée d'un tel dispositif d'attache rapide 1 selon la présente invention ainsi que d'une boîte de montre 2 et d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable 3 correspondants, permet clairement de visualiser les principaux composants du dispositif. La montre en elle-même n'étant pas importante pour la présente invention et pouvant être de tous types, à mouvement mécanique ou électronique et à affichage analogique ou numérique, n'est que représentée sur les figures par la boîte de montre 2. Le dispositif d'attache 1 comporte un corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir et étant apte à être logé de manière coulissante dans la boîte de montre 2 de la montre bracelet correspondant, le mouvement s'exerçant le long d'un axe parallèle à la barrette à ressort située habituellement sur les boîtes de montre conventionnelles. Ce corps 1.1 porte une tige de retenue 1.2 agencée, dans l'état assemblé avec la boîte de montre 2, parallèlement au plan de la boîte de montre 2 et dans la direction de coulissement dudit corps 1.1. Ainsi, le corps 1.1 et la tige de retenue sont déplaçables parallèlement à un axe longitudinal de ladite tige de retenue 1.2, cette dernière remplaçant d'une certaine manière la barrette à ressort habituelle.The figure 1c , showing an exploded perspective view of such a quick coupler device 1 according to the present invention as well as a watch case 2 and a corresponding interchangeable watch strap 3, makes it possible to clearly visualize the main components of the device . The watch itself is not important for the present invention and can be of all types, mechanical or electronic movement and analog or digital display, is only represented in the figures by the watch case 2. The 1 attachment device comprises a body 1.1 serving as a push button and being adapted to be slidably housed in the watch case 2 of the corresponding wristwatch, the movement being exerted along an axis parallel to the bar to spring usually located on conventional watch cases. This body 1.1 carries a retaining rod 1.2 arranged, in the assembled state with the watch case 2, parallel to the plane of the watch case 2 and in the sliding direction of said body 1.1. Thus, the body 1.1 and the retaining rod are movable parallel to a longitudinal axis of said retaining rod 1.2, the latter replacing in some manner the usual spring bar.

1 De plus, le corps 1.1 coopère avec un ressort 1.3 disposé de façon sensiblement parallèle à ladite tige de retenue 1.2 et exerçant une force de précontrainte rappelant le corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir dans une position de repos. Ceci est particulièrement bien visible sur la figure 1e montrant une coupe à plat le long de la ligne I-I indiquée dans la figure 1d à travers le dispositif d'attache 1. La figure 1e montre également que le ressort 1.3 peut par exemple être fixé à une extrémité libre d'une goupille 1.1.1 montée sur le corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir et agencée parallèlement à ladite tige de retenue 1.2. De préférence, ledit ressort 1.3 est un ressort hélicoïdal. En général, le ressort 1.3 est choisi de façon à ce que sa force de précontrainte permet d'éviter un actionnement par inadvertance du corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir. Les figures 1a et notamment 1e illustrent en même temps que ledit corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir est agencé de façon à présenter, dans sa position de repos, une surface extérieure 1.1.2 alignée et homogène par rapport à la surface extérieure 2.1.1 de la carrure 2.1 de la boîte de montre 2 dans laquelle il est destiné à être intégré. Ainsi, le risque d'un actionnement par inadvertance du corps 1.1 peut encore être diminué et cela donne simultanément une esthétique particulièrement avantageuse à la montre correspondante du fait que le bouton poussoir est intégré d'une manière parfaitement discrète.In addition, the body 1.1 cooperates with a spring 1.3 disposed substantially parallel to said retaining rod 1.2 and exerting a prestressing force reminding the body 1.1 serving as a push button in a rest position. This is particularly visible on the figure 1e showing a flat section along the line II indicated in the figure 1d through the device 1. The figure 1e also shows that the spring 1.3 can for example be attached to a free end of a pin 1.1.1 mounted on the body 1.1 as a push button and arranged parallel to said retaining rod 1.2. Preferably, said spring 1.3 is a helical spring. In general, the spring 1.3 is chosen so that its prestressing force makes it possible to avoid an inadvertent actuation of the body 1.1 serving as a push button. The figures 1a and in particular 1e illustrate at the same time that said body 1.1 serving as a push button is arranged to have, in its rest position, an outer surface 1.1.2 aligned and homogeneous with respect to the outer surface 2.1.1 of the caseband 2.1 of the watch case 2 in which it is intended to be integrated. Thus, the risk of an inadvertent actuation of the body 1.1 can be further reduced and this simultaneously gives a particularly advantageous aesthetic to the corresponding watch because the push button is integrated in a perfectly discrete manner.

La tige de retenue 1.2 montée sur le corps 1.1 a une forme particulière et dispose à au moins un endroit prédéfini le long de son axe longitudinal d'une épaisseur réduite 1.2.1 par rapport à une épaisseur de référence 1.2.2 que présente le reste de la tige de retenue 1.2. Selon la forme d'exécution préférée illustrée aux figures, et tel que visible notamment aux figures 2a et 2c, la tige de retenue 1.2 est réalisée par une tige de diamètre constant et comprend des méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 d'une longueur représentant une fraction de la longueur de ladite tige 1.2 à au moins un endroit prédéfini le long de son axe longitudinal, de préférence à deux endroits prédéfinis. Il est particulièrement préférable d'agencer deux méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 situés sur des côtés opposés et parallèles l'un à l'autre à chacun desdits endroits prédéfinis, comme cela ressort également de la figure 2c qui montre un agrandissement de la zone A indiquée dans la figure 2a, quelques parties étant illustrées en transparence pour une meilleure compréhension de la structure des pièces. Sur toute la longueur des endroits prédéfinis et vu dans une orientation spécifique, à savoir la direction perpendiculaire au plan des méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1, la tige de retenue 1.2 présente ainsi une épaisseur réduite 1.2.1, tandis qu'elle présente l'épaisseur de référence 1.2.2 sur tout le reste de sa longueur, voire une épaisseur située entre ces deux valeurs extrêmes sur la longueur des endroits prédéfinis mais mesurée dans une direction autre que la direction perpendiculaire au plan des méplats 1.2.1.1.The retaining rod 1.2 mounted on the body 1.1 has a particular shape and has at least one predefined location along its longitudinal axis of a reduced thickness 1.2.1 compared to a reference thickness 1.2.2 that the rest presents of the retaining pin 1.2. According to the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, and as visible in particular in Figures 2a and 2c the retaining rod 1.2 is formed by a rod of constant diameter and comprises guide flats 1.2.1.1 of a length representing a fraction of the length of said rod 1.2 at at least one predefined location along its longitudinal axis, preferably at two predefined locations. It is particularly preferable to arrange two guide flats 1.2.1.1 located on opposite sides and parallel to each other at each of said predefined locations, as is also apparent from the Figure 2c which shows an enlargement of zone A indicated in the figure 2a , some parts being illustrated in transparency for a better understanding of the structure of the parts. Throughout the length of predefined locations and seen in a specific orientation, namely the direction perpendicular to the plane of the guide flats 1.2.1.1, the retaining rod 1.2 thus has a reduced thickness 1.2.1, while it has the reference thickness 1.2. 2 over the rest of its length, or even a thickness situated between these two extreme values over the length of the predefined places, but measured in a direction other than the direction perpendicular to the plane of the flats 1.2.1.1.

Tel qu'illustré schématiquement à la figure 2b montrant une vue en perspective éclatée du corps 1.1 et de la tige de retenue 1.2 avant leur assemblage, le corps 1.1 présente un trou borgne apte à recevoir une extrémité de la tige de retenue 1.2, ce trou borgne possédant un premier méplat d'indexage 1.1.3 apte à coopérer avec un deuxième méplat d'indexage 1.2.1.2 situé sur ladite extrémité de la tige 1.2, permettant ainsi de garantir une orientation précise des méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 par rapport au corps 1.1 une fois que ces deux pièces sont assemblées, respectivement une orientation précise des méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 par rapport à la boîte de montre 2, par exemple en référence à la surface supérieure de cette boîte 2 sur sa partie hébergeant le corps 1.1, une fois que ce dernier est introduit dans la boîte de montre 2. Par ailleurs, cet assemblage peut être effectué par plusieurs procédés, par exemple par soudage, par brasage, par collage, voire toute autre méthode adéquate. Il est également possible de fabriquer le corps 1.1 et la tige de retenue 1.2 d'une pièce.As schematically illustrated in figure 2b showing an exploded perspective view of the body 1.1 and the retaining rod 1.2 before assembly, the body 1.1 has a blind hole adapted to receive one end of the retaining rod 1.2, the blind hole having a first indexing flat 1.1 .3 adapted to cooperate with a second indexing flat 1.2.1.2 located on said end of the rod 1.2, thus ensuring a precise orientation of the guide flats 1.2.1.1 relative to the body 1.1 once these two pieces are assembled, respectively a precise orientation of the guide flats 1.2.1.1 with respect to the watch case 2, for example with reference to the upper surface of this box 2 on its part housing the body 1.1, once the latter is introduced into 2. Furthermore, this assembly can be performed by several methods, for example by welding, brazing, gluing or any other suitable method. It is also possible to manufacture the body 1.1 and the retaining rod 1.2 in one piece.

La tige de retenue 1.2 comprend encore un élément terminal 1.2.3, visible par exemple à la figure 1c et sur la coupe à plat de la figure 1e. Cet élément terminal 1.2.3 est monté sur l'extrémité libre de la tige de retenue 1.2, opposée à son extrémité fixée au corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir, et permet de sécuriser ce corps 1.1 contre tout détachement de la boîte de montre 2. En effet, tel que visible notamment à la figure 1c, la carrure 2.1 d'une boîte de montre 2 correspondante comprend sur chacun de ses côtés latéraux opposés un logement 2.1.2 apte à recevoir le corps 1.1, la tige de retenue 1.2, et le ressort 1.3 du dispositif d'attache 1. Lors de l'assemblage du dispositif d'attache rapide 1 et de la boîte de montre 2 correspondante, le corps 1.1, la tige de retenue 1.2, et le ressort 1.3 sont introduits dans le logement 2.1.2 à partir de son côté destiné à recevoir le corps 1.1. Ensuite, l'élément terminal 1.2.3 est introduit dans le logement 2.1.2 à partir de son côté opposé et fixé sur l'extrémité libre de la tige de retenue 1.2, par exemple par vissage ou tout autre moyen adéquat, de façon à bloquer le corps 1.1 dans le logement 2.1.2 de la carrure 2.1 tout en permettant un mouvement en translation du corps 1.1 suite à son actionnement par l'utilisateur. Cette constellation est visible au mieux à la figure 1e.The retaining rod 1.2 further comprises a terminal element 1.2.3, visible for example at the figure 1c and on the flat cut of the figure 1e . This terminal element 1.2.3 is mounted on the free end of the retaining rod 1.2, opposite its end fixed to the body 1.1 serving as a push button, and makes it possible to secure this body 1.1 against any detachment of the watch case 2. Indeed, as visible in particular in figure 1c , case 2.1 of a watch case 2 corresponding comprises on each of its opposite lateral sides a housing 2.1.2 adapted to receive the body 1.1, the retaining pin 1.2, and the spring 1.3 of the fastening device 1. When assembling the quick coupling device 1 and the corresponding watch case 2, the body 1.1, the retaining rod 1.2, and the spring 1.3 are introduced into the housing 2.1.2 from its side intended to receive the body 1.1. Then, the terminal element 1.2.3 is introduced into the housing 2.1.2 from its opposite side and fixed on the free end of the retaining rod 1.2, for example by screwing or any other suitable means, so as to block the body 1.1 in the housing 2.1.2 of the case 2.1 while allowing a translational movement of the body 1.1 following its actuation by the user. This constellation is best seen at the figure 1e .

La vue en perspective éclatée de la figure 1c et la coupe à plat de la figure 1e montrent que le dispositif d'attache 1 selon la présente invention comporte encore au moins un élément d'attache 1.4 apte à être monté à une extrémité 3.1 d'un bracelet de montre interchangeable 3. Un tel élément d'attache 1.4 comporte une fente 1.4.1 de forme complémentaire à celle de la tige de retenue 1.2, de manière à ce que cette dernière 1.2 est apte, en fonction de sa position le long de ladite axe longitudinale, à coopérer avec le voire les éléments d'attache 1.4 de façon à permettre de fixer ou d'enlever ledit bracelet de montre interchangeable 3 de la boîte de montre 2.The exploded perspective view of the figure 1c and the flat cut of the figure 1e show that the attachment device 1 according to the present invention also comprises at least one attachment element 1.4 adapted to be mounted at an end 3.1 of an interchangeable watch strap 3. Such a fastener element 1.4 has a slot 1.4 .1 of complementary shape to that of the retaining rod 1.2, so that the latter 1.2 is adapted, depending on its position along said longitudinal axis, to cooperate with the 1.4 or even the fastening elements so to allow to fix or remove said interchangeable wristwatch 3 from the watch case 2.

En particulier et tel que visible notamment sur la figure 2d, la fente 1.4.1 de forme complémentaire sur chaque élément d'attache 1.4 est formée par une rainure 1.4.1.1 d'une hauteur correspondant sensiblement à l'épaisseur réduite 1.2.1 de ladite tige de retenue 1.2. Cette rainure 1.4.1.1 permet, dans la position actionnée dudit corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir, de laisser passer ladite tige de retenue 1.2 et ouvre à un logement traversant 1.4.1.2 d'un diamètre correspondant sensiblement à l'épaisseur de référence 1.2.2 de ladite tige de retenue 1.2, ce logement traversant 1.4.1.2 étant apte à recevoir ladite tige de retenue 1.2 dans la position de repos dudit corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir. De plus, chaque élément d'attache 1.4 est agencé de façon à recevoir un moyen de fixation 3.2 d'un bracelet de montre 3, par exemple en ayant un perçage 1.4.2 sur l'extrémité de l'élément d'attache 1.4 opposée à son extrémité comportant ladite fente 1.4.1, permettant de monter le moyen de fixation 3.2 sur cette extrémité. Le moyen de fixation 3.2 peut être constitué par une barrette vissée 3.2.1, 3.2.2, par une barrette à ressort, par une vis, ou tout autre moyen adéquat. L'élément d'attache 1.4 lui-même est, de préférence et tel qu'illustré dans les figures, réalisé par un plot sensiblement parallélépipédique rectangle apte à recevoir sur son extrémité, opposée à l'extrémité comportant la fente 1.4.1, une barrette vissée.In particular and as visible in particular on the figure 2d the slot 1.4.1 of complementary shape on each fastening element 1.4 is formed by a groove 1.4.1.1 of a height substantially corresponding to the reduced thickness 1.2.1 of said retaining rod 1.2. This groove 1.4.1.1 allows, in the actuated position of said body 1.1 serving as a push button, to let through said retaining rod 1.2 and opens to a through housing 1.4.1.2 of a diameter substantially corresponding to the reference thickness 1.2. 2 of said rod retaining 1.2, this through housing 1.4.1.2 being adapted to receive said retaining rod 1.2 in the rest position of said body 1.1 serving as a push button. In addition, each fastener element 1.4 is arranged to receive a fixing means 3.2 of a watch strap 3, for example by having a hole 1.4.2 on the end of the attachment element 1.4 opposite. at its end comprising said slot 1.4.1, for mounting the fixing means 3.2 on this end. The fixing means 3.2 may be constituted by a screw bar 3.2.1, 3.2.2, by a spring bar, by a screw, or any other suitable means. The fastening element 1.4 itself is, preferably and as illustrated in the figures, made by a substantially rectangular parallelepipedic pad adapted to receive on its end, opposite the end having the slot 1.4.1, a screwed bar.

Il reste à remarquer, au vu de la description figurant ci-dessus de la forme d'exécution préférée du dispositif d'attache rapide 1 selon la présente invention, que d'autres formes d'exécution alternatives d'un tel dispositif sont à la portée de l'homme du métier, sans qu'il soit possible voire nécessaire de les décrire toutes en détail. Par exemple, il est clair que le ressort 1.3 disposé de façon sensiblement parallèle à ladite tige de retenue 1.2 peut être fixé à l'intérieur de la boîte de montre 2 et agir sur ladite extrémité libre de la goupille 1.1.1 montée sur le corps 1.1 au lieu d'être monté sur cette goupille 1.1.1 et d'agir sur la boîte de montre 2. De même, le corps 1.1 pourrait ne pas disposer de la goupille 1.1.1, de façon à ce que le ressort 1.3 est monté directement sur ladite tige de retenue 1.2, même si cette configuration est moins préférée, car la goupille 1.1.1 permet, en plus de servir au montage du ressort 1.3, de guider le corps 1.1 et de le stabiliser lors de son mouvement en translation. De manière générale, la forme du corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir peut être adaptée à la carrure voulue tant dans sa forme extérieure que par les géométries lui permettant son déplacement et son guidage.It remains to be noted, from the above description of the preferred embodiment of the quick coupler 1 according to the present invention, that other alternative embodiments of such a device are at the range of the skilled person, without it being possible or necessary to describe them all in detail. For example, it is clear that the spring 1.3 disposed substantially parallel to said retaining rod 1.2 can be fixed inside the watch case 2 and act on said free end of the pin 1.1.1 mounted on the body 1.1 instead of being mounted on this pin 1.1.1 and acting on the watch case 2. Similarly, the body 1.1 may not have the pin 1.1.1, so that the spring 1.3 is mounted directly on said retaining rod 1.2, even if this configuration is less preferred, because the pin 1.1.1 allows, in addition to being used for mounting the spring 1.3, to guide the body 1.1 and to stabilize it during its translational movement . In general, the shape of the body 1.1 serving as a push button can be adapted to the desired size in its outer shape as well as the geometries allowing it to move and guide.

De plus, la tige de retenue 1.2 peut aussi être agencée différemment. En effet, il est clair pour l'homme du métier que les méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 d'une longueur donnée situés à au moins un endroit prédéfini le long de l'axe longitudinal de la tige de retenue 1.2, tel que décrit ci-dessus, ne forment qu'une possibilité parmi plusieurs autres de réaliser un endroit prédéfini le long de son axe longitudinal d'une épaisseur réduite 1.2.1 par rapport à une épaisseur de référence 1.2.2 que présente le reste de la tige de retenue 1.2. Dans d'autres formes d'exécution alternatives, il serait en outre possible de réaliser ces endroits prédéfinis le long de l'axe longitudinal de la tige 1.2 d'une épaisseur réduite 1.2.1 par une partie de tige cylindrique mais de diamètre inférieure par rapport au diamètre du reste de la tige de retenue 1.2, par une partie de tige de section carrée, hexagonale, ou autre pour autant que l'épaisseur de cette partie de la tige de retenue 1.2 est, au moins dans une orientation spécifique, moins élevée que l'épaisseur de référence du reste de la tige 1.2, toutes ces variantes n'étant pas illustrées dans les figures. Ces explications rendent aussi plus clair l'agencement de deux méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 situés sur des côtés opposés et parallèles l'un à l'autre à chacun desdits endroits prédéfinis de la tige de retenue 1.2 particulièrement préférable, car à côté de la simplicité de fabrication d'une telle tige cela permet en outre de définir une orientation spécifique, à savoir la direction perpendiculaire au plan des méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1, que devrait présenter la normale sur le plan de la fente 1.4.1 des éléments d'attache 1.4 pour permettre d'enlever le bracelet interchangeable 3 du dispositif d'attache rapide 1, même si le corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir est actionné. Cela réalise donc une sécurité supplémentaire contre tout enlèvement par inadvertance du bracelet 3. Par ailleurs, en fonction de l'agencement du bracelet interchangeable 3 et donc en outre du nombre souhaité d'éléments d'attache 1.4, la tige de retenue 1.2 sera équipée à un, deux, trois, voire plus d'endroits prédéfinis et de longueur adéquate le long de son axe longitudinal de ces parties d'épaisseur réduite 1.2.1.In addition, the retaining rod 1.2 can also be arranged differently. Indeed, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the guide flats 1.2.1.1 of a given length located at at least one predefined location along the longitudinal axis of the retaining rod 1.2, as described herein. above, are only one of several possibilities to achieve a predefined location along its longitudinal axis of reduced thickness 1.2.1 compared to a reference thickness 1.2.2 that the rest of the retaining rod presents. 1.2. In other alternative embodiments, it would also be possible to perform these predefined locations along the longitudinal axis of the rod 1.2 of reduced thickness 1.2.1 by a portion of cylindrical rod but of smaller diameter by relative to the diameter of the remainder of the retaining rod 1.2, by a portion of square section rod, hexagonal, or other provided that the thickness of this portion of the retaining rod 1.2 is, at least in a specific orientation, less higher than the reference thickness of the rest of the rod 1.2, all these variants not being illustrated in the figures. These explanations also make clear the arrangement of two guide flats 1.2.1.1 located on opposite sides and parallel to each other at each of said predefined locations of the retaining rod 1.2 particularly preferable, because next to the simplicity of manufacture of such a rod it also allows to define a specific orientation, namely the direction perpendicular to the plane of the guide flats 1.2.1.1, that should present the normal in terms of the slot 1.4.1 of the elements of 1.4 attachment to allow to remove the interchangeable strap 3 of the quick coupler 1, even if the body 1.1 as a push button is actuated. This therefore provides additional security against any inadvertent removal of the bracelet 3. Furthermore, depending on the arrangement of the interchangeable strap 3 and therefore in addition to the desired number of fastening elements 1.4, the retaining rod 1.2 will be equipped. one, two, three or more predefined locations of adequate length along its longitudinal axis of those parts of reduced thickness 1.2.1.

De même, l'élément d'attache 1.4 peut prendre des formes assez différentes sans que le dispositif sorte du domaine de la présente invention. Dans le cas d'un bracelet interchangeable 3 réalisé par des pièces articulées l'une à l'autre en métal, donc similaire à un bracelet métallique conventionnel, chaque élément d'attache 1.4 est, de préférence, réalisé par un plot sensiblement parallélépipédique rectangle tel qu'illustré dans les figures. Dans ce cas, il suffit de monter l'extrémité correspondante du bracelet 3 à l'extrémité dudit plot opposé à l'extrémité comportant la fente 1.4.1 en insérant par exemple une barrette vissée 3.2.1 dans le perçage 1.4.2 et de fixer la barrette 3.2.1 par un écrou 3.2.2, tel qu'illustré schématiquement à la figure 1c. Alternativement, il est possible de réaliser cet élément d'attache 1.4 par une pièce unique sensiblement en forme de T ou de H, le pied du T, respectivement un côté du H formant l'extrémité de l'élément d'attache 1.4 comportant la voire les fentes 1.4.1 et la barre du T, respectivement l'autre côté du H formant l'extrémité opposée et comportant un évidement apte à recevoir une barrette à ressort. Ces formes d'exécution alternatives se prêtent particulièrement bien pour attacher un bracelet interchangeable 3 en cuir, en caoutchouc, ou en un matériau synthétique et équipé d'une barrette à ressort conventionnel à un dispositif d'attache rapide 1 selon la présente invention. Ainsi, le dispositif d'attache rapide 1 comportant un corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir, une tige de retenue 1.2, un ressort 1.3, et un voire des éléments d'attache 1.4 tel que proposés forment un lien robuste, sûr, esthétique, et facile de fabrication et d'utilisation entre la boîte de montre 2 et le bracelet interchangeable 3, étant en plus assez flexible dans son agencement afin d'être adaptable à plusieurs formes de boîtes de montre et, notamment, à plusieurs types de bracelets.Similarly, the fastening element 1.4 can take quite different forms without the device outside the scope of the present invention. In the case of an interchangeable bracelet 3 made by pieces articulated to one another metal, so similar to a conventional metal bracelet, each fastening element 1.4 is preferably formed by a rectangular substantially parallelepipedic pad as shown in the figures. In this case, it is sufficient to mount the corresponding end of the bracelet 3 at the end of said stud opposite the end having the slot 1.4.1 by inserting for example a screw bar 3.2.1 in the hole 1.4.2 and of fix the bar 3.2.1 with a nut 3.2.2, as schematically illustrated in figure 1c . Alternatively, it is possible to achieve this fastening element 1.4 by a single piece substantially T-shaped or H, the foot of the T, respectively one side of the H forming the end of the fastening element 1.4 comprising the even the slots 1.4.1 and the bar of the T, respectively the other side of the H forming the opposite end and having a recess adapted to receive a spring bar. These alternative embodiments are particularly suitable for attaching an interchangeable strap 3 of leather, rubber, or a synthetic material and equipped with a conventional spring bar to a quick coupler 1 according to the present invention. Thus, the quick coupling device 1 comprising a body 1.1 serving as a push button, a retaining rod 1.2, a spring 1.3, and even 1.4 fastening elements as proposed form a robust, secure, aesthetic, and easy manufacturing and use between the watch case 2 and the interchangeable bracelet 3, being more flexible enough in its arrangement to be adaptable to several forms of watch boxes and, in particular, to several types of bracelets.

Tel que mentionné brièvement ci-dessus, la présente invention concerne également une boîte de montre 2 correspondante pour montres bracelet, apte à coopérer avec un dispositif d'attache rapide 1 tel que décrit ci-haut. La figure 1c montre qu'une telle boîte de montre 2 comporte, en général, une carrure 2.1 dont deux côtés latéraux opposés sont agencés pour recevoir un bracelet de montre interchangeable. En particulier, la carrure 2.1 comprend sur chacun des deux côtés latéraux opposés un logement 2.1.2 apte à recevoir le corps 1.1, la tige de retenue 1.2, et le ressort 1.3 dudit dispositif d'attache rapide 1 et au moins un évidement 2.1.3 apte à recevoir le voire les éléments d'attache 1.4 dudit dispositif d'attache rapide 1. Ledit logement 2.1.2 apte à recevoir le corps 1.1, la tige de retenue 1.2, et le ressort 1.3 est situé parallèlement au plan de la boîte de montre 2 et a une forme générale allongée dont l'axe longitudinal est parallèle à l'axe longitudinal d'une barrette à ressort que présentent les boîtes des montres conventionnelles. Une première partie du logement 2.1.2 destiné à recevoir le corps 1.1 est plus large qu'une deuxième partie du logement 2.1.2 destiné à recevoir la tige de retenue 1.2. Cette deuxième partie traverse la carrure 2.1 dans son intégralité et présente une épaule formant un appui pour l'élément terminal 1.2.3 de la tige de retenue 1.2, de façon à ce que le dispositif d'attache 1 est, une fois monté dans le logement 2.1.2 de la carrure 2.1, sécurisé dans ce logement 2.1.2 tout en permettant un mouvement en translation du corps 1.1 suite à son actionnement par l'utilisateur, tel qu'illustré schématiquement à la figure 1e. La forme exacte du logement 2.1.2 peut varier et correspond évidemment à la forme du corps 1.1 et de la tige de retenue 1.2.As mentioned briefly above, the present invention also relates to a corresponding watch case 2 for wristwatches, suitable for cooperate with a quick coupling device 1 as described above. The figure 1c shows that such a watch case 2 comprises, in general, a case 2.1, two opposite sides of which are arranged to receive an interchangeable watch strap. In particular, the middle part 2.1 comprises on each of the two opposite lateral sides a housing 2.1.2 adapted to receive the body 1.1, the retaining rod 1.2, and the spring 1.3 of said quick coupling device 1 and at least one recess 2.1. 3 adapted to receive the 1.4 or even the attachment elements of said quick coupling device 1. Said housing 2.1.2 adapted to receive the body 1.1, the retaining pin 1.2, and the spring 1.3 is located parallel to the plane of the box watch 2 and has a generally elongated shape whose longitudinal axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis of a spring bar that present conventional watch boxes. A first portion of the housing 2.1.2 for receiving the body 1.1 is wider than a second portion of the housing 2.1.2 for receiving the retaining rod 1.2. This second part passes through the middle section 2.1 in its entirety and has a shoulder forming a support for the end element 1.2.3 of the retaining rod 1.2, so that the fastening device 1 is, once mounted in the housing 2.1.2 of the case 2.1, secured in this housing 2.1.2 while allowing a movement in translation of the body 1.1 following its actuation by the user, as schematically illustrated in the figure 1e . The exact shape of the housing 2.1.2 can vary and obviously corresponds to the shape of the body 1.1 and the retaining rod 1.2.

De plus, la carrure 2.1 d'une telle boîte de montre 2 comprend au moins un évidement 2.1.3 apte à recevoir le voire les éléments d'attache 1.4, chaque évidement 2.1.3 étant orienté sensiblement perpendiculairement par rapport au logement 2.1.2 et débouchant dans ce dernier afin de donner accès à la tige de retenue 1.2 mobile. L'emplacement des évidements 2.1.3 est choisi de façon à ce que chaque partie d'épaisseur réduite 1.2.1 de la tige de retenue 1.2 apparait, dans la position d'actionnement du corps 1.1, entièrement dans l'évidement 2.1.3 correspondant, tandis que, dans la position de repos, une partie de la tige de retenue 1.2 présentant l'épaisseur de référence 1.2.2 apparait dans l'évidement 2.1.3 correspondant. Il est clair que le nombre d'évidements 2.1.3 formés dans la carrure 2.1 dépend du nombre souhaité d'éléments d'attache 1.4 voire du nombre d'endroits prédéfinis d'épaisseur réduite 1.2.1 sur la tige de retenue 1.2, ce qui dépend à son tour principalement de l'agencement souhaité des bracelets interchangeables 3 à attacher à cette boîte de montre 2. Il est évident que les variantes susmentionnées des pièces 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 formant le dispositif d'attache rapide 1 peuvent être combinées en fonction et selon les contraintes spécifiques présentes dans un cas concret d'une boîte de montre 2 et d'un bracelet interchangeable 3.In addition, the caseband 2.1 of such a watch case 2 comprises at least one recess 2.1.3 adapted to receive the fastening elements or even 1.4, each recess 2.1.3 being oriented substantially perpendicular to the housing 2.1.2 and opening into the latter to give access to the movable retaining rod 1.2. The location of the recesses 2.1.3 is chosen so that each portion of reduced thickness 1.2.1 of the retaining rod 1.2 appears, in the actuating position of the body 1.1, entirely in the recess 2.1.3 corresponding, while in the rest position, a portion of the retaining rod 1.2 having the reference thickness 1.2.2 appears in the recess 2.1.3 corresponding. It is clear that the number of recesses 2.1.3 formed in the case 2.1 depends on the desired number of fastening elements 1.4 or even the number of predefined places of reduced thickness 1.2.1 on the retaining rod 1.2, which which in turn mainly depends on the desired arrangement of the interchangeable straps 3 to be attached to this watch case 2. It is obvious that the aforementioned variants of the parts 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 forming the quick coupler 1 can be combined according to and according to the specific constraints present in a concrete case of a watch case 2 and an interchangeable bracelet 3.

Finalement, la présente invention concerne aussi un bracelet de montre interchangeable 3 agencé de façon à être monté sur un dispositif d'attache rapide 1 tel que décrit ci-dessus. Tel que mentionné ci-dessus, le bracelet peut être fabriqué en divers matériaux, par exemple en tout type de métal, comme l'acier, l'or, le titane, ou l'aluminium, en cuir, en caoutchouc, ou encore en un matériau synthétique, comme le plastique, et l'aspect du bracelet interchangeable 3 peut être choisi à son gré. Afin d'être adapté à toute utilisation en combinaison avec un dispositif d'attache rapide 1 selon la présente invention, il suffit que le bracelet correspondant présente, tel que visible par exemple aux figures 1c et 1e, sur ses extrémités destinées à être attachées à la boîte de montre 2 un moyen de fixation 3.2 adéquat. Ce moyen de fixation peut être constitué par exemple par une barrette vissée 3.2.1 comportant un écrou 3.2.2, une barrette à ressort, une vis, ou tout autre moyen similaire.Finally, the present invention also relates to an interchangeable wristwatch 3 arranged to be mounted on a quick coupling device 1 as described above. As mentioned above, the bracelet can be made of various materials, for example of any type of metal, such as steel, gold, titanium, or aluminum, leather, rubber, or even a synthetic material, such as plastic, and the appearance of the interchangeable strap 3 can be chosen at will. In order to be suitable for any use in combination with a quick coupling device 1 according to the present invention, it suffices that the corresponding bracelet has, as visible for example to figures 1c and first , on its ends intended to be attached to the watch case 2 a suitable fixing means 3.2. This fixing means may be constituted for example by a screw bar 3.2.1 having a nut 3.2.2, a spring bar, a screw, or any other similar means.

Au vu de la description détaillée figurant ci-dessus de la structure d'un dispositif d'attache rapide 1 selon la présente invention, voire d'une boîte de montre 2 et d'un bracelet interchangeable 3 correspondants, le fonctionnement du dispositif est aisément compréhensible à l'aide des figures 3a à 3d illustrant schématiquement, par des vues de côté et des coupes longitudinales, les deux états principaux de fonctionnement du dispositif, à savoir lorsque le dispositif se trouve dans sa position de repos et dans sa position d'actionnement.In view of the detailed description above of the structure of a quick coupling device 1 according to the present invention, or even a watch case 2 and a corresponding interchangeable bracelet 3, the operation of the device is easily understandable with the help of Figures 3a to 3d schematically illustrating, by side views and longitudinal sections, the two main operating states of the device, namely when the device is in its rest position and in its actuated position.

La figure 3a montre une vue de côté du dispositif d'attache rapide 1 selon la présente invention, respectivement de la boîte de montre 2 et du bracelet de montre interchangeable 3 correspondants, dans leur état assemblé, lorsque le dispositif d'attache rapide 1, notamment le corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir, se trouve dans sa position de repos, et la figure 3b est une coupe longitudinale le long de la ligne II-II indiquée dans la figure 3a à travers le dispositif d'attache rapide 1. Ces figures montrent, en particulier sur la zone B de la figure 3b, que les méplats 1.2.1.1, respectivement en général les parties de la tige de retenue 1.2 présentant une épaisseur réduite 1.2.1, se trouvent au moins partiellement décalés par rapport aux fentes 1.4.1 agencés sur les éléments d'attache 1.4 lorsque le corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir se trouve dans sa position de repos. Le bracelet interchangeable 3 est donc de manière rigide lié à la boîte de montre 2 par l'intermédiaire du dispositif d'attache rapide 1, tout en disposant d'une certaine liberté d'articulation autour de l'axe longitudinal de la tige de retenue 1.2.The figure 3a shows a side view of the quick coupling device 1 according to the present invention, respectively of the watch case 2 and the interchangeable watch strap 3 corresponding, in their assembled state, when the quick coupling device 1, in particular the body 1.1 serving as a push button, is in its rest position, and the figure 3b is a longitudinal section along the line II-II indicated in the figure 3a through the quick coupler 1. These figures show, in particular on the zone B of the figure 3b , that the flats 1.2.1.1, respectively in general the parts of the retaining rod 1.2 having a reduced thickness 1.2.1, are at least partially offset relative to the slots 1.4.1 arranged on the fastening elements 1.4 when the 1.1 body serving as a push button is in its rest position. The interchangeable strap 3 is therefore rigidly connected to the watch case 2 by means of the quick coupling device 1, while having a certain freedom of articulation about the longitudinal axis of the retaining rod 1.2.

La figure 3c représente une vue de côté similaire à la figure 3a du dispositif d'attache rapide 1, respectivement de la boîte de montre 2 et du bracelet de montre interchangeable 3 correspondants, lorsque le dispositif d'attache rapide, notamment le corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir, se trouve dans sa position d'actionnement. La figure 3d montre une coupe longitudinale le long de la ligne III-III indiquée dans la figure 3c à travers le dispositif d'attache rapide 1, le ressort 1.3 non-visible sur cette figure étant comprimé suite à l'actionnement du corps 1.1 par l'utilisateur, décalant ainsi la tige de retenue 1.2 vers l'intérieur du logement 2.1.2 de la carrure 2.1. Dans cette position, lorsque le corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir est actionné, les méplats 1.2.1.1, respectivement en général les parties de la tige de retenue 1.2 présentant une épaisseur réduite 1.2.1, se trouvent alignés aux fentes 1.4.1 desdits éléments d'attache 1.4, tel que visible en particulier sur la zone D de la figure 3d. La flèche E indiquée dans cette figure symbolise que le corps 1.1 est actionné.The figure 3c represents a side view similar to the figure 3a of the quick coupling device 1, respectively of the watch case 2 and the corresponding interchangeable wristwatch 3, when the quick-coupling device, in particular the body 1.1 serving as a push button, is in its actuated position. The figure 3d shows a longitudinal section along the line III-III indicated in the figure 3c through the quick coupling device 1, the spring 1.3 not visible in this figure being compressed following the actuation of the body 1.1 by the user, thus shifting the retaining rod 1.2 towards the inside of the housing 2.1.2 of the caseband 2.1. In this position, when the body 1.1 serving push button is actuated, the flats 1.2.1.1, respectively in general the parts of the retaining rod 1.2 having a reduced thickness 1.2.1, are aligned with the slots 1.4.1 of said fastening elements 1.4, as visible in particular on the zone D of the figure 3d . The arrow E indicated in this figure symbolizes that the body 1.1 is actuated.

Dans la forme d'exécution préférée illustrée dans les figures, l'utilisateur peut alors orienter le bracelet interchangeable 3 dans ladite orientation spécifique mentionnée ci-dessus, à savoir dans une direction telle que la direction perpendiculaire au plan des méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 se trouve sensiblement alignée à la normale sur le plan de la fente 1.4.1 des éléments d'attache 1.4, pour libérer le bracelet interchangeable 3 et donc lui permettre d'enlever le bracelet interchangeable 3 du dispositif d'attache rapide 1, respectivement de la boîte de montre 2, ainsi que d'attacher le même - ou un autre bracelet interchangeable 3 de son choix à la boîte de montre 2. Lors de la fabrication, la tige de retenue 1.2 peut être montée sur le corps 1.1, à l'aide des premier - 1.1.3 et deuxième méplats d'indexage 1.2.1.2 susmentionnés situés sur le corps 1.1 respectivement ladite extrémité de la tige 1.2, en ayant une orientation telle que les méplats de guidage 1.2.1.1 présentent l'orientation requise par rapport à la fente 1.4.1 des éléments d'attache 1.4 dans une position prédéfinie du bracelet 3 par rapport à la boîte de montre 2, étant donné que c'est cette position qui est visible pour l'utilisateur. Tel qu'indiqué symboliquement par la flèche C à la figure 3c, il est préférable que dans cette orientation requise du bracelet permettant son enlèvement voire son attachement, l'axe longitudinal du bracelet soit parallèle à une partie de la boîte de montre, par exemple parallèle à la surface supérieure de la partie latérale de la carrure 2.1 intégrant le corps 1.1. Le constructeur peut ainsi choisir le niveau de sécurité supplémentaire contre tout enlèvement par inadvertance du bracelet 3 en adaptant de façon correspondante l'angle d'orientation entre le bracelet interchangeable 3 et la boîte de montre 2 qui permet l'enlèvement et l'attachement du bracelet 3. Cette mesure renforce les dispositions mentionnées auparavant prises au niveau de la force du ressort de précontrainte 1.3 ainsi que par l'intégration du corps 1.1 servant de bouton poussoir dans la carrure 2.1 en alignant les surfaces extérieures 1.1.2, 2.1.1 du corps 1.1 et de la carrure 2.1. Par conséquent, un dégagement du bracelet interchangeable 3 se produit uniquement suite à une pression sur le corps 1.1 par l'utilisateur pendant que ce dernier oriente le bracelet 3 à un angle prédéfini par rapport à la boîte de montre 2, tandis qu'un dégagement involontaire ou accidentel du bracelet 3 de la boîte de montre 2 peut quasiment être exclu du fait que le ressort 1.3 rappelle et maintient le corps 1.1 voire la tige de retenue 1.2 mobiles dans leur position de repos, qu'un actionnement par inadvertance du corps 1.1 intégré dans la carrure 2.1 est peu probable, et qu'une orientation spécifique du bracelet 3 par rapport à la boîte de montre 2 est nécessaire pour son dégagement, tout au moins dans la forme d'exécution préférée du dispositif. Dans d'autres formes d'exécution, moins préférées du dispositif, comportant par exemple une tige de rotation 1.2 cylindrique à deux diamètres différents, il n'est pas nécessaire d'orienter le bracelet de façon spécifique pour l'enlever, voire l'attacher.In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the user can then orient the interchangeable strap 3 in said specific orientation mentioned above, namely in a direction such that the direction perpendicular to the plane of the guide flats 1.2.1.1 is substantially aligned with the normal in the plane of the slot 1.4.1 of the fastening elements 1.4, to release the interchangeable strap 3 and thus allow it to remove the interchangeable strap 3 of the quick coupler 1, respectively of the watch case 2, as well as to attach the same - or another interchangeable bracelet 3 of its choice to the watch case 2. During manufacture, the retaining pin 1.2 can be mounted on the body 1.1, at the using the aforementioned first - 1.1.3 and second indexing flats 1.2.1.2 located on the body 1.1 respectively said end of the rod 1.2, having an orientation such as the guide flats 1.2.1.1 show the required orientation with respect to the slit 1.4.1 of the fastening elements 1.4 in a predefined position of the bracelet 3 with respect to the watch case 2, since it is this position which is visible for the user. As symbolically indicated by the arrow C at the figure 3c , it is preferable that in this required orientation of the bracelet allowing its removal or its attachment, the longitudinal axis of the bracelet is parallel to a portion of the watch case, for example parallel to the upper surface of the side portion of the caseband 2.1 integrating the body 1.1. The manufacturer can thus choose the additional level of security against any inadvertent removal of the bracelet 3 by correspondingly adapting the angle of orientation between the interchangeable strap 3 and the watch case 2 which allows the removal and attachment 3. This measure reinforces the provisions mentioned previously taken at the level of the force of the prestressing spring 1.3 as well as the integration of the body 1.1 serving as a push button in the middle part 2.1 by aligning the outer surfaces 1.1.2, 2.1. 1 of the body 1.1 and the middle part 2.1. Therefore, a release of the interchangeable strap 3 occurs only after a pressure on the body 1.1 by the user while the latter orients the bracelet 3 at a predefined angle with respect to the watch case 2, while a clearance accidental or accidental of the bracelet 3 of the watch case 2 can almost be excluded from the fact that the spring 1.3 recalls and maintains the body 1.1 or the retaining pin 1.2 movable in their rest position, an inadvertent actuation of the body 1.1 embedded in the middle part 2.1 is unlikely, and that a specific orientation of the bracelet 3 relative to the watch case 2 is necessary for its release, at least in the preferred embodiment of the device. In other, less preferred embodiments of the device, comprising, for example, a cylindrical rotating rod 1.2 with two different diameters, it is not necessary to orient the bracelet specifically to remove it, or even the to attach.

Tout en étant de structure robuste et relativement simple par rapport à l'art antérieur et en gardant un faible encombrement, le dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention peut être décliné dans de nombreuses variantes. Du fait de la structure peu complexe du dispositif ainsi que du petit volume occupé en comparaison à des dispositifs similaires de l'art antérieur, le dispositif est assez facile à réaliser industriellement permettant de diminuer les coûts de production d'un tel dispositif d'attache rapide, respectivement de la montre équipée de ce dispositif. Par ailleurs, le dispositif permet une utilisation simple, sûr, et fiable. En effet, il est clair qu'un dispositif d'attache rapide comportant les caractéristiques mentionnées ci-dessus est simplement actionné par pression, optionnellement en orientant le bracelet interchangeable dans une direction spécifique, afin de permettre l'enlèvement, respectivement l'attachement du bracelet, tandis qu'un actionnement par inadvertance du bouton poussoir, respectivement un enlèvement involontaire ou accidentelle du bracelet interchangeable peut quasiment être exclu. Le guidage du mouvement en translation par le corps formant le bouton poussoir et les deux tiges y attachées et l'absence d'une cinématique complexe rendent l'opération du dispositif fiable. Le dispositif présente l'avantage important qu'il est plus facile à intégrer dans des pièces d'horlogerie existantes que dans des systèmes de l'art antérieur, sans nécessiter trop d'ajustements voire une révision importante de la conception de ces pièces. En somme, le dispositif d'attache rapide selon la présente invention permet à l'utilisateur de changer selon ses goûts et/ou compte tenu des conditions d'utilisation de sa montre, le bracelet interchangeable attaché à la boîte de montre, de manière intuitive et sans devoir disposer d'un outil ou d'une habileté particulière.While being of robust structure and relatively simple compared to the prior art and keeping a small footprint, the quick coupling device according to the present invention can be declined in many variants. Due to the complexity of the device as well as the small volume occupied compared to similar devices of the prior art, the device is quite easy to produce industrially to reduce the production costs of such a fastening device fast, respectively of the watch equipped with this device. Moreover, the device allows simple, safe and reliable use. Indeed, it is clear that a quick coupling device having the characteristics mentioned above is simply actuated by pressure, optionally by orienting the interchangeable strap in a specific direction, in order to allow removal or attachment of the bracelet, while an inadvertent actuation of the push button, respectively unintentional or accidental removal of the interchangeable strap can almost be excluded. Guiding the movement in translation by the body forming the push button and the two rods attached thereto and the absence of a complex kinematics make the operation of the device reliable. The device has the important advantage that it is easier to integrate into existing timepieces than in systems of the prior art, without requiring too many adjustments or a major revision of the design of these parts. In short, the quick coupling device according to the present invention allows the user to change according to his tastes and / or given the conditions of use of his watch, the interchangeable strap attached to the watch case, intuitively and without having to have a particular tool or skill.

Claims (15)

  1. A rapid attachment device (1) of an interchangeable watch bracelet (3) for wrist watches, the device comprising a body (1.1) used as a push button and being adapted to be housed slidingly in a watch case (2), the body (1.1) bearing a retaining stem (1.2) arranged parallel to the plane of the watch case (2) and in the direction of sliding of said body (1.1), such that the body (1.1) is displaceable parallel to a longitudinal axis of said retaining stem (1.2), the body (1.1) cooperating with a spring (1.3) arranged substantially parallel to said retaining stem (1.2) and exerting a pretension force biasing the body (1.1) used as a push button in a rest position, said retaining stem (1.2) having a particular shape having in at least one predefined location along its longitudinal axis a reduced thickness (1.2.1) with relation to a reference thickness (1.2.2) that presents the rest of the retaining stem (1.2), the device comprising at least one attachment element (1.4) adapted to be mounted at one end (3.1) of said interchangeable watch bracelet (3) and comprising a slot (1.4.1) of a shape complementary to that of the retaining stem (1.2), the latter (1.2) being adapted, depending on its position along said longitudinal axis, to cooperate with the attachment element or elements (1.4) so as to allow said interchangeable watch bracelet (3) to be attached to or to be removed from the watch case (2).
  2. The device according to the previous claim, characterized by the fact that said retaining stem (1.2) comprises guiding flats (1.2.1.1) in at least one predefined location, preferably in two predefined locations, such that the guiding flats (1.2.1.1) are aligned with the slots (1.4.1) of said attachment elements (1.4) when the body (1.1) used as a push button is activated and such that the guiding flats (1.2.1.1) are at least partially offset from these slots (1.4.1) when the body (1.1) used as a push button is in its rest position.
  3. The device according to one of the previous claims, characterized by the fact that said retaining stem (1.2) comprises a terminal element (1.2.3) mounted on a free end, opposite to its end fixed to the body (1.1) used as a push button, and allowing to secure this body (1.1) against any detachment from the watch case (2).
  4. The device according to one of the previous claims, characterized by the fact that said spring (1.3) arranged substantially parallel to said retaining stem (1.2) is fixed to a free end of a pin (1.1.1) mounted on the body (1.1) used as a push button and arranged parallel to said retaining stem (1.2).
  5. The device according to one of the previous claims, characterized by the fact that said spring (1.3) arranged substantially parallel to said retaining stem (1.2) is a helical spring.
  6. The device according to one of the previous claims, characterized by the fact that the slot (1.4.1) of complementary shape on each attachment element (1.4) is formed by a channel (1.4.1.1) with a height corresponding to the reduced thickness (1.2.1) of said retaining stem (1.2), this channel (1.4.1.1) being adapted to allow said retaining stem (1.2), in the activated position of said body (1.1) used as a push button, to pass through and opening to a through housing (1.4.1.2) with a diameter corresponding to the reference thickness (1.2.2) of said retaining stem (1.2), this through housing (1.4.1.2) being adapted to receive said retaining stem (1.2) in the rest position of said body (1.1) used as a push button.
  7. The device according to one of the previous claims, characterized by the fact that each attachment element (1.4) is arranged so as to receive a fastening means (3.2) of a watch bracelet (3), this fastening means (3.2) being mounted on the end of the attachment element (1.4) opposite to its end comprising said slot (1.4.1).
  8. The device according to the previous claim, characterized by the fact that the fastening means (3.2) is chosen from the group of fastening elements comprising a screwed bar (3.2.1, 3.2.2), a spring bar, a screw.
  9. The device according to one of the previous claims, characterized by the fact that the attachment element (1.4) is made of a substantially rectangular parallelepiped stud adapted to receive on its end, opposite from the end comprising slot (1.4.1), a screwed bar.
  10. The device according to one of the previous claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact that the attachment element (1.4) is made by a single piece substantially in a T shape, the leg of the T forming the end of attachment element (1.4) comprising the slot (1.4.1) and the cross of the T forming the opposite end comprising a recess adapted to receive a spring bar.
  11. The device according to one of the previous claims, characterized by the fact that said body (1.1) used as a push button is arranged so as to present, in its rest position, an external surface (1.1.2) that is aligned and homogeneous with relation to the external surface (2.1.1) of the watch case (2) in which it is supposed to be integrated.
  12. A watch case (2) for wrist watches comprising a middle part (2.1), the two opposed lateral sides of which are arranged to receive an interchangeable watch bracelet, characterized by the fact that the middle part (2.1) comprises, on each of said two opposed lateral sides, a housing (2.1.2) adapted to receive the body (1.1), the retaining stem (1.2), and the spring (1.3) of a rapid attachment device (1) according to one of the previous claims and at least one recess (2.1.3) adapted to receive the attachment element or elements (1.4) of said rapid attachment device.
  13. The watch case (2) according to the previous claim, characterized by the fact that said housing (2.1.2) adapted to receive the body (1.1), the retaining stem (1.2) and the spring (1.3) is oriented substantially perpendicularly with relation to the recesses (2.1.3) adapted to receive the attachment element or elements (1.4).
  14. An interchangeable watch bracelet (3), characterized by the fact that it is arranged such as to be mounted onto a rapid attachment device (1) according to one of the previous claims 1 to 11.
  15. The watch bracelet (3) according to the previous claim, characterized by the fact that it is fabricated in a material chosen from the group comprising metals, such as steel, gold, titanium or aluminium, leather, rubber, synthetic materials, such as plastic.
EP13157295.0A 2012-04-27 2013-02-28 Attachment device of an interchangeable bracelet for timepieces Active EP2657795B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH00578/12A CH706443A1 (en) 2012-04-27 2012-04-27 A fastening device with an interchangeable bracelet timepiece.

Publications (3)

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EP2657795A2 EP2657795A2 (en) 2013-10-30
EP2657795A3 EP2657795A3 (en) 2017-12-06
EP2657795B1 true EP2657795B1 (en) 2018-12-26

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EP13157295.0A Active EP2657795B1 (en) 2012-04-27 2013-02-28 Attachment device of an interchangeable bracelet for timepieces

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US (1) US8790004B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2657795B1 (en)
CN (1) CN103376734B (en)
CH (1) CH706443A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2718850T3 (en)

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CN103376734B (en) 2017-09-29
US8790004B2 (en) 2014-07-29
US20130286796A1 (en) 2013-10-31
CH706443A1 (en) 2013-10-31
EP2657795A2 (en) 2013-10-30
ES2718850T3 (en) 2019-07-04
EP2657795A3 (en) 2017-12-06
CN103376734A (en) 2013-10-30

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