EP3455679B1 - Watch case comprising removable horns - Google Patents

Watch case comprising removable horns Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3455679B1
EP3455679B1 EP17718753.1A EP17718753A EP3455679B1 EP 3455679 B1 EP3455679 B1 EP 3455679B1 EP 17718753 A EP17718753 A EP 17718753A EP 3455679 B1 EP3455679 B1 EP 3455679B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
horns
pair
lock
watch case
bracelet
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP17718753.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3455679A1 (en
Inventor
Laurent Cuenat
Laurent RAILLE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA
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LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA
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Publication date
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Publication of EP3455679A1 publication Critical patent/EP3455679A1/en
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Publication of EP3455679B1 publication Critical patent/EP3455679B1/en
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/14—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps characterised by the way of fastening to a wrist-watch or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/14—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps characterised by the way of fastening to a wrist-watch or the like
    • A44C5/147—Watchcase itself used as fastener
    • 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
    • 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
    • A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/20—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for open straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/2019—Hooks
    • A44C5/2023—Sliding hooks
    • A44C5/2028—Sliding hooks with spring closure means
    • 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

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a watch case with removable and interchangeable horns.
  • Wristwatches generally include a watch case with a middle part comprising horns which serve to attach the bracelet; the usual watch cases have two pairs of horns, each strand of the bracelet being mounted between two horns.
  • the shoulders are generally made up of a single piece made by stamping by integrating the horns.
  • the manufacture of squares provided with horns with complex shapes is difficult and unsuitable for mass production.
  • the document CH706260 describes a part of the watch case comprising a middle part and removable horns connected to each other by a connecting piece.
  • the middle part includes a hollow location for each horn and a hollow location for each connecting piece. The depth of these locations makes it possible to position the base of the horns while masking the connecting piece.
  • the connection piece is fixed to the middle with two screws perpendicular through each horn and engaged in threaded holes in the thickness of the middle. A tool is therefore necessary to disassemble the horns.
  • the middle part must be relatively thick to accommodate tapped holes for holding the horns.
  • each horn comprising two projecting elements which can be inserted into corresponding recesses.
  • the connection between the horn and the middle part is effected by exploiting the deformation of the projecting elements when they are inserted into the recesses.
  • This solution requires a thick middle to achieve the locations suitable for cooperating with the projecting elements.
  • there is a risk of breakage of the horns if the force exerted to deform the projecting elements in order to make the connection with the middle part is too great.
  • the document CH701221 describes a middle part whose external lateral surface comprises a mortise.
  • the end of a horn includes a tenon of the same rendering as the mortise.
  • the post is arranged to be inserted into the mortise, the two parts then being connected by a dowel in a housing formed by holes in the middle and the post. The insertion and removal of the ankle requires tools. The horns are therefore not easily removable.
  • the document EP2188676 describes a watch case with a middle part and two pairs of horns.
  • the two horns of each pair are connected by a connecting piece comprising a side held against the middle by means of an elastic member inside the middle.
  • This elastic member is connected to the connecting piece through an opening located on the contour of the middle part.
  • This solution therefore requires an elastic member inside the middle part, the mounting of which is complicated.
  • the middle must be thick to accommodate this elastic element.
  • the entire middle part must be brought back to the watchmaker for revision in the event of deformation or breakage of the elastic element.
  • EP1902641 requires indexing means in the middle part and also in the connecting part, in order to index the insertion of a pin of the connecting part in the middle part longitudinally.
  • the documents CH355094 and CH321188 require a thick middle to be able to realize housings intended to receive a piece of connection of the horns.
  • the document EP0400206 describes a middle part of a wristwatch, the bracelet of which is retained on the middle part by means of a locking element which can be positioned in a cavity of a part external to the middle part and connected to its external surface. This piece cooperates with rods allowing the bracelet to be fixed.
  • the document EP0471834 describes a rectangular middle of a wristwatch comprising a bore in one side of the middle and whose wall is crossed by an axial slot of a width greater than the thickness of the bracelet.
  • An elastic tubular blade and a sleeve, one end of which is closed, are inserted into this slot.
  • the tubular blade has an axial toothed slot into which the free end of a flexible bracelet is introduced.
  • the axial introduction of the tubular blade into the sleeve requires an elastic deformation of the blade causing the free end of the bracelet to be blocked by pinching the toothed slot.
  • This solution requires a very thick middle part to make the axial slot receiving the sleeve and the elastic tubular blade. In addition, this solution is only suitable for flexible bracelets.
  • the document US5732048 describes a watch case comprising a first hole extending in a first direction (perpendicular to the plane of movement), arranged to receive a cylinder, and a second hole extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first (and therefore in the plane of movement), and arranged to receive a screw linked to a connecting piece of a bracelet.
  • the cylinder has two openings, the first of which is arranged to receive this screw, and the second to receive another screw for fixing the middle part to the bottom of the watch case.
  • the middle part requires a large thickness to accommodate the holes receiving the bracelet connection screw as well as the cylinder.
  • This solution has the advantage in particular of simplifying the manufacture of the middle part which is devoid of horns and devoid of a member for handling the lock. It can therefore be very fine, and simple to machine.
  • the complexity moves on the pairs of horns, which support the handle of the lock.
  • the horns are made up of small parts, usually made by milling and which are easier to machine into complex shapes.
  • the handling member By deporting the handling member to the horns, it also facilitates its handling. Furthermore, the underside of the horns does not press strongly on the wrist, which limits the risk of injuring the skin with the manipulation member.
  • the manipulation member is preferably manipulable by hand, for example with a finger.
  • the handling member can preferably be handled without tools.
  • the handling member preferably remains linked to the pair of horns when the pair of horns is released and when the bracelet; any risk of losing screws, pins or other parts when removing the horns or bracelet is therefore eliminated.
  • the watch case may include an elastic return element, for example a spring, mounted on the pair of horns in order to push the manipulation member, as well as preferably the second lock member, into the locking position.
  • an elastic return element for example a spring
  • the manipulation member can be provided on the horns on the back side, that is to say on the side of the horns facing the wrist when wearing the watch. It is therefore concealed when wearing the watch, and protected from risks of unintentional handling.
  • the manipulation member and the second lock member can form two parts of the same part.
  • the manipulation member can be manipulated between the locked position and the release position by moving it in a vertical direction.
  • the vertical direction is perpendicular to the horizontal plane, itself defined as the plane of the back of the watch.
  • the first member of the lock is constituted by a bolt fixedly connected to the middle part.
  • the second member of the bolt is constituted by a striker movable relative to the pair of horns, between the bolt locking position and the bolt release position.
  • the first member of the lock extends radially over a lateral face of the middle part.
  • This body can be in the form of an anchor with a central rod which ends in two lateral jas.
  • the second lock member has a window through which the first lock member is in the locked position.
  • This window forming a movable keeper, has an enlarged portion allowing the insertion and extraction of the first member of the lock, and a narrow portion preventing the insertion and extraction of the first member of the lock.
  • the first lock member (anchor-shaped) passes through the narrow portion of the window when the elastic return element mounted on the pair of lugs pushes the second lock member into the locked position, but is prevented from coming out by the anchor jas which cannot cross the narrow portion of the window.
  • the elastic return element may consist of one or more leaf springs bearing on the second member of the lock.
  • the spring leaves can act in a vertical direction, in order to push the second member of the lock in a vertical direction.
  • the direction of movement of the handling member between the locking position and the release position is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. This variant makes it possible to reduce the contact between the handling member and the wrist of the user, and therefore to limit the risk of injuring the user.
  • the second lock member can pivot about an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane between the locking position and the handling position. This axis can be linked to the pair of horns.
  • the first member of the lock is constituted by a groove or another keeper in a lateral face of the middle part.
  • the second member of the lock is constituted by a bolt or another portion engaged in this groove in the locked position, and out of the groove in the release position.
  • the manipulation member may consist of a movable button operable by the user and acting on the second member of the lock in the release position in order to unlock it.
  • the handling member and the second member of the lock are thus constituted by two separate parts, which allows if desired to manufacture them in different materials and optimized according to their own requirements.
  • the second lock member can translate radially in the horizontal plane between the locking position and the release position.
  • the manipulation member can be manipulated horizontally.
  • the return member can push the handling member in a substantially horizontal direction, oriented towards the outside of the watch.
  • the pair of horns allows to maintain a strand of the bracelet.
  • Two pairs of horns can be provided to hold the two strands of the bracelet.
  • a portion of the bracelet can be sandwiched between the pair of horns and a portion of the middle.
  • the arrangement may include a vertical stack comprising, from bottom to top: a portion of the pair of horns; the end of the bracelet, inserted on this portion and between the two horns; a portion of the middle.
  • Disassembly or replacement of the bracelet may require disassembly of the lugs.
  • the bracelet is thus simpler and more economical to make.
  • the complexity of the removable link is carried over to the pairs of horns, which are durable parts.
  • a spring ball may be provided in the bracelet in order to position the bracelet relative to the pair of horns.
  • a first embodiment of the invention is illustrated on the Figures 1 to 9 .
  • the figure 1 illustrates a watch case comprising a middle part 1A and a pair of removable horns 3A, on which is mounted a strand of bracelet 5. Another pair of removable horn and another strand of bracelet not shown can be mounted on the opposite side of the middle .
  • the figure 3 is a bottom view of these elements.
  • the bracelet strand 5 is temporarily inserted into the pair of horns 3 (here 3A) by moving it vertically (that is to say in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the bottom of the watch).
  • the assembly formed by the horns and the bracelet is then assembled on the middle part 1 (here 1A - figure 2 ).
  • This assembly of the pair of horns 3 on the middle part 1 also makes it possible to maintain the bracelet strand by preventing its axial extraction as in the other embodiments.
  • a lock comprising a first fixed member 10A linked to the watch case and a second member 31A ( figure 4 ) allows to lock the assembly between the pair of horns 3A and the middle part 1A.
  • the pair of horns 3A, and therefore the bracelet strand 5 can only be released from the middle by manipulating the second member of the lock to move it from the locked position to a release position, as will be seen below.
  • the figure 6 illustrates one of the two pairs of horns 3A as well as the second locking member 31A.
  • This member 31A can slide vertically in two slots 37 formed in the pair of horns 3A.
  • An elastic return element here formed of two elastic blades 34A ( figure 7 ), exerts a restoring force on the second member of the lock in order to push it back into the locked position, that is to say downwards in the figure.
  • the second locking member 31A constitutes a part of a part which also includes a handling member 30A.
  • the manipulator is visible under the internal face of the pair of horns, as seen for example on the figure 3 .
  • the user can manipulate it, without the slightest tool, in order to push the second locking member up towards the top of the figure, that is to say in the release position of the lock.
  • the second locking member 31A has a window 310 constituting a keeper in which the first member 10A can be inserted.
  • the locking of the pair of horns 3A on the middle part 1A is therefore done with a locking mechanism with a fixed bolt linked to the middle part, and a sliding keeper linked to the pair of horns.
  • the first member 10A of the lock has an anchor shape with a rod and two jars extending on each side at the end of the rod.
  • the window 310 has an inverted T shape with an enlarged portion 312 allowing the insertion or extraction of the first member 10A, and a narrower portion 311 preventing the passage of this first member 10A.
  • the bracelet is provisionally inserted between the two horns of the pair 3A, before mounting this pair on the middle 1A.
  • Complementary shapes 53 at the end of the bracelet and in the inter-horns allow fitting.
  • the end of the bracelet 5 is also held in position by means of a ball 50 on spring 51 which is positioned in a housing 35 ( figure 8 ) formed between the two horns of pair 3A.
  • the positioning of the pair of horns 3A on the external face of the middle part 1A is obtained thanks to the interlocking of the complementary shapes 38 on the pair of horns 3A and 13 on the lateral faces of the middle part 1A.
  • the figures 4, 5 and 8 , 9 illustrate different sectional views of the pair of horns 3A assembled on the middle part 1A.
  • the figure 8 illustrates the position of the various elements before locking.
  • the second member 31A is pushed down, in the locked position, by the return spring 34A.
  • the pair of horns 3A can only be released by manipulating the handling member 30A to lower the window 310 into the release position, allowing the extraction of the first member 10A.
  • the bracelet strand 5 is held between the pair of horns 3 (here 3A) and the middle 1 (here 1A), and therefore cannot be removed without unlocking and then removing the pair of horns 3. More precisely, as seen especially on the figure 4 , a portion 52 at the longitudinal end of the bracelet strand 5 is sandwiched between a portion 12 of the middle part 1A and the pair of horns 3A. In the horizontal plane, the movement of the bracelet strand 5 is limited by the two horns of the pair 3A.
  • a second embodiment of the invention is illustrated on the figures 10 to 14 .
  • it again comprises a watch case with a middle part 1B, pairs of removable horns 3B, and a bracelet 5 held between these horns 3B and the middle part 1B.
  • Complementary shapes 13 on the middle and 38 on the pair of horns can fit together to ensure the assembly of these elements before they are locked.
  • complementary shapes also make it possible to fit the end of the bracelet strand 5 against the external face of the pair of horns 3B, before their maintenance by the assembly of the pair of horns on the middle 1B.
  • the pairs of horns 3B are mounted on the middle part 1B by an axial movement, that is to say vertical.
  • the complementary shapes 13 on the middle part 1B constitute slides and make it possible to guide this relative displacement of the pairs of horns 3B axially with respect to the middle part 1B.
  • the lock making it possible to block this assembly once the horns are in position is constituted in this embodiment by a groove 10B on the lateral face of the middle part 1B (first member), and by a second member 31B movable in rotation and mounted on the pair of horns 3B, in order to block its axial movement.
  • the second member 31B can pivot around a vertical axis 39 under the underside of the pair of horns, between a locking position engaged in the groove 10B ( figure 13 ), and a release position for mounting or dismounting the pair of horns 3B.
  • the second member 31B is linked to a handling member 30B which makes it possible to extract it in the release position, by pivoting it around the axis 39.
  • a return spring 34B for example a wire spring , exerts a pressing pressure of the second member 31B at the bottom of the groove 10B.
  • the other aspects of this second embodiment can be identical or equivalent to those of the first embodiment.
  • a third embodiment is illustrated on the Figures 15 to 19 .
  • the unlocking of the pair of horns 3 on the middle part 1C is obtained by moving a second member 31C of the lock by a rotational movement around an axis 39 linked to the pair of horns 3C, so as to release it from the first member 10C constituted by a groove on the periphery of the middle part 1C.
  • a return spring 34c pushes this second member to the bottom of the groove in the locked position, so as to prevent the axial displacement of the pair of horns 3C relative to the middle part.
  • the lock therefore prevents the separation of the pair of horns 3C with respect to the middle part 1C.
  • the handling member 30C is constituted by a separate piece from the second member 31C of the lock.
  • the handling member is constituted by a button sliding in a horizontal plane between the locking and release positions.
  • the handling member 30C and the second member 31B are linked to each other by a pin passing through an oblong opening under the underside of the pair of horns.
  • the first member of the lock is constituted by a groove 10D forming a keeper at the periphery of the middle part 1D.
  • the second member of the lock consists of a bolt 31D at the end of a bolt comprising a handling member 30D under the underside of the pair of 3D horns.
  • a return spring 34D housed in a blind hole 32 on the face of the pair of horns 3D pushes the bolt so as to engage the second member 31D (bolt) in the groove 10D (keeper).
  • the lock prevents the axial displacement of the pair of horns relative to the middle part 1D.
  • the manipulation member 30D can be pulled outwards in order to disengage the two members of the lock and to insert or extract the pair of horns by moving it axially relative to the middle part 1D.
  • the figures 23 to 28 illustrate a fifth embodiment of the invention.
  • the first member of the lock again consists of a groove 10E ( Fig. 27 ) forming a keeper at the periphery of the middle part 1E and preventing the extraction of the pair of horns 3E according to a vertical (axial) movement.
  • the second member of the lock is constituted by a bolt 31E which moves radially in this groove, while being guided in this movement by an opening 310 on the internal face of the pair of horns 3E.
  • the second member 31E is pushed back to the bottom of the groove 10E by two return springs 34E linked to the pair of horns 3E, here helical springs visible in particular on the figures 25 and 26 .
  • the second member 31E In the release position, the second member 31E is moved radially towards the outside of the watch, against the action of the return springs 34E.
  • This movement is obtained thanks to the handling member 30E constituted by a push button under the internal face of the pair of horns.
  • the button 30E comprises a rod 301, the end of which forms a bevel 303.
  • This bevel 303 bears against a complementary bevel 311 under the second member 31E, so as to move this second member 31E between the locking position illustrated on the figure 28 and the release position illustrated on the figure 28 .
  • the end of the second member 31E In this release position, the end of the second member 31E is fully retracted inside the horns and no longer projects beyond the window 310.
  • the manipulation member 30E is guided in its vertical movement by a cover 300 crossed by the rod 301. Balls on spring 304 exert a force to push this member when it is not pressed. Pins 302 on either side of the rod 301 also make it possible to ensure vertical movement of the handling member 30E.
  • the entire device is hidden by a cover 322 screwed by means of screws 320 on the spacer.
  • the end of the second member 31E is provided with a beveled bias to allow its removal during the insertion of the pair of horns on the middle part 1E.
  • each pair of horns on the middle part 1 of embodiments 2 to 5 is obtained by a relative axial displacement, along the vertical axis; the lock keeps the nested position.
  • these complementary forms include pins 33 engaged in blind holes in the middle part and the pair of horns 3.
  • the complementary shapes 38 on the pair of horns 3E include two end mills (blind grooves). This guide element 38 requires only a small depth and is completely concealed when the pair of horns is mounted.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
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Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne une boîte de montre avec des cornes amovibles et interchangeables.The present invention relates to a watch case with removable and interchangeable horns.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

Les montres-bracelets comportent généralement une boîte de montre avec une carrure comportant des cornes qui servent à l'attache du bracelet; les boîtes de montres usuelles comportent deux paires de cornes, chaque brin du bracelet étant monté entre deux cornes.Wristwatches generally include a watch case with a middle part comprising horns which serve to attach the bracelet; the usual watch cases have two pairs of horns, each strand of the bracelet being mounted between two horns.

Les carrures sont généralement constituées par une seule pièce fabriquée par étampage en intégrant les cornes. La fabrication de carrures munies de cornes avec des formes complexes est difficile et peu adaptée à une production en série.The shoulders are generally made up of a single piece made by stamping by integrating the horns. The manufacture of squares provided with horns with complex shapes is difficult and unsuitable for mass production.

Il existe aussi des parties de boîtes de montres dans lesquelles la carrure et les cornes sont fabriquées séparément et assemblées l'une à l'autre après coup. Ces boîtes sont plus faciles à fabriquer. En outre, les faces extérieures de la carrure peuvent être terminées par tournage, donc plus proprement et plus rapidement que celles d'une carrure fabriquée directement avec les cornes.There are also parts of watch cases in which the middle and the horns are made separately and assembled together afterwards. These boxes are easier to make. In addition, the outer faces of the middle part can be finished by turning, therefore more cleanly and more quickly than those of a middle part manufactured directly with the horns.

Le document CH706260 , déposé par la demanderesse, décrit une partie de boîte de montre comprenant une carrure et des cornes amovibles reliées entre elles par une pièce de liaison. La carrure comprend un emplacement évidé pour chaque corne et un emplacement évidé pour chaque pièce de liaison. La profondeur de ces emplacements permet de positionner la base des cornes tout en masquant la pièce de liaison. La fixation de la pièce de liaison à la carrure est assurée grâce à deux vis perpendiculaires traversant chaque corne et engagées dans des trous taraudés dans l'épaisseur de la carrure. Un outil est donc nécessaire pour démonter les cornes. Par ailleurs, la carrure doit être relativement épaisse pour y loger des trous taraudés de maintien des cornes.The document CH706260 , filed by the applicant, describes a part of the watch case comprising a middle part and removable horns connected to each other by a connecting piece. The middle part includes a hollow location for each horn and a hollow location for each connecting piece. The depth of these locations makes it possible to position the base of the horns while masking the connecting piece. The connection piece is fixed to the middle with two screws perpendicular through each horn and engaged in threaded holes in the thickness of the middle. A tool is therefore necessary to disassemble the horns. Furthermore, the middle part must be relatively thick to accommodate tapped holes for holding the horns.

Le document EP2431825 décrit des cornes amovibles, chaque corne comprenant deux éléments en saillie qui peuvent être insérés dans des évidements correspondants. La liaison entre la corne et la carrure s'effectue en exploitant la déformation des éléments en saillie lors de leur insertion dans les évidements. Cette solution nécessite une carrure épaisse afin de réaliser les emplacements aptes à coopérer avec les éléments en saillie. En outre il existe un risque de casse des cornes si la force exercée pour déformer les éléments en saillie afin de réaliser la liaison avec la carrure est trop grande.The document EP2431825 describes removable horns, each horn comprising two projecting elements which can be inserted into corresponding recesses. The connection between the horn and the middle part is effected by exploiting the deformation of the projecting elements when they are inserted into the recesses. This solution requires a thick middle to achieve the locations suitable for cooperating with the projecting elements. In addition there is a risk of breakage of the horns if the force exerted to deform the projecting elements in order to make the connection with the middle part is too great.

Le document CH701221 décrit une carrure dont la surface latérale extérieure comprend une mortaise. L'extrémité d'une corne comprend un tenon de même équarrissage que la mortaise. Le tenon est arrangé pour être inséré dans la mortaise, les deux parties étant ensuite reliées par une cheville dans un logement formé par des trous de la carrure et du tenon. L'insertion et le retrait de la cheville nécessite un outillage. Les cornes ne sont donc pas aisément démontables.The document CH701221 describes a middle part whose external lateral surface comprises a mortise. The end of a horn includes a tenon of the same rendering as the mortise. The post is arranged to be inserted into the mortise, the two parts then being connected by a dowel in a housing formed by holes in the middle and the post. The insertion and removal of the ankle requires tools. The horns are therefore not easily removable.

Le document EP2188676 décrit une boîte de montre avec une carrure et deux paires de cornes. Les deux cornes de chaque paire sont reliées par une pièce de liaison comportant un côté maintenu contre la carrure par l'intermédiaire d'un organe élastique à l'intérieur de la carrure. Cet organe élastique est connecté à la pièce de liaison au travers d'une ouverture située sur le contour de la carrure. Cette solution nécessite donc un organe élastique à l'intérieur de la carrure, dont le montage est compliqué. La carrure doit être épaisse pour loger cet élément élastique. Toute la carrure doit être ramenée à l'horloger pour révision en cas de déformation ou de cassure de l'élément élastique.The document EP2188676 describes a watch case with a middle part and two pairs of horns. The two horns of each pair are connected by a connecting piece comprising a side held against the middle by means of an elastic member inside the middle. This elastic member is connected to the connecting piece through an opening located on the contour of the middle part. This solution therefore requires an elastic member inside the middle part, the mounting of which is complicated. The middle must be thick to accommodate this elastic element. The entire middle part must be brought back to the watchmaker for revision in the event of deformation or breakage of the elastic element.

Une solution similaire est décrite dans EP1902641 , qui nécessite des moyens d'indexation dans la carrure et également dans la pièce de liaison, afin d'indexer longitudinalement l'insertion d'un tourillon de la pièce de liaison dans la carrure.A similar solution is described in EP1902641 , which requires indexing means in the middle part and also in the connecting part, in order to index the insertion of a pin of the connecting part in the middle part longitudinally.

Les documents CH355094 et CH321188 requièrent une carrure épaisse pour pouvoir réaliser des logements destinés à recevoir une pièce de liaison des cornes.The documents CH355094 and CH321188 require a thick middle to be able to realize housings intended to receive a piece of connection of the horns.

Le document EP0400206 décrit une carrure de montre-bracelet dont le bracelet est retenu à la carrure par l'intermédiaire d'un élément de verrouillage positionnable dans une cavité d'une pièce externe à la carrure et reliée à sa surface externe. Cette pièce coopère avec des tiges permettant la fixation du bracelet.The document EP0400206 describes a middle part of a wristwatch, the bracelet of which is retained on the middle part by means of a locking element which can be positioned in a cavity of a part external to the middle part and connected to its external surface. This piece cooperates with rods allowing the bracelet to be fixed.

Le document EP0471834 décrit une carrure rectangulaire de montre-bracelet comprenant un alésage dans un côté de la carrure et dont la paroi est traversée par une fente axiale d'une largeur supérieure à l'épaisseur du bracelet. Une lame tubulaire élastique et un manchon dont une extrémité est fermée sont insérés dans cette fente. La lame tubulaire comporte une fente axiale dentée dans laquelle est introduite l'extrémité libre d'un bracelet souple. L'introduction axiale de la lame tubulaire dans le manchon nécessite une déformation élastique de la lame entraînant un blocage de l'extrémité libre du bracelet par pincement de la fente dentée. Cette solution nécessite une carrure d'une épaisseur importante pour réaliser la fente axiale recevant le manchon et la lame tubulaire élastique. En outre, cette solution est uniquement adaptée à des bracelets souples.The document EP0471834 describes a rectangular middle of a wristwatch comprising a bore in one side of the middle and whose wall is crossed by an axial slot of a width greater than the thickness of the bracelet. An elastic tubular blade and a sleeve, one end of which is closed, are inserted into this slot. The tubular blade has an axial toothed slot into which the free end of a flexible bracelet is introduced. The axial introduction of the tubular blade into the sleeve requires an elastic deformation of the blade causing the free end of the bracelet to be blocked by pinching the toothed slot. This solution requires a very thick middle part to make the axial slot receiving the sleeve and the elastic tubular blade. In addition, this solution is only suitable for flexible bracelets.

Le document US5732048 décrit une carrure de montre comprenant un premier trou s'étendant dans une première direction (perpendiculaire au plan du mouvement), arrangé pour recevoir un cylindre, et un deuxième trou s'étendant dans une deuxième direction perpendiculaire à la première (et donc dans le plan du mouvement), et arrangé pour recevoir une vis liée à une pièce de connexion d'un bracelet. Le cylindre comprend deux ouvertures, dont la première est arrangée pour recevoir cette vis, et la deuxième pour recevoir une autre vis permettant de fixer la carrure au fond de la boîte de montre. La carrure requiert une épaisseur importante pour y loger les trous recevant la vis de connexion au bracelet ainsi que le cylindre.The document US5732048 describes a watch case comprising a first hole extending in a first direction (perpendicular to the plane of movement), arranged to receive a cylinder, and a second hole extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first (and therefore in the plane of movement), and arranged to receive a screw linked to a connecting piece of a bracelet. The cylinder has two openings, the first of which is arranged to receive this screw, and the second to receive another screw for fixing the middle part to the bottom of the watch case. The middle part requires a large thickness to accommodate the holes receiving the bracelet connection screw as well as the cylinder.

Les boîtes de montres ci-dessus comportent donc le plus souvent une carrure difficile à fabriquer. Les moyens de fixation des cornes sur la carrure sont complexes à fabriquer et nécessitent souvent une épaisseur de carrure importante. Ces solutions sont donc peu adaptées à des boîtes de montres de petite dimension ou devant être fabriquées à coût réduit. En outre, le démontage des cornes est le plus souvent délicat, et nécessite des outils d'horlogers, ou même parfois le démontage du fond de la montre en compromettant temporairement l'étanchéité.Most of the above watch cases therefore have a build which is difficult to manufacture. The means for fixing the horns to the middle are complex to manufacture and often require a large thickness of middle. These solutions are therefore unsuitable for watch boxes of small size or to be manufactured at reduced cost. In addition, the disassembly of the horns is most often delicate, and requires tools of watchmakers, or even sometimes the disassembly of the back of the watch by temporarily compromising the water resistance.

Le document US2016040698 décrit une boîte de montre à cornes amovibles selon le préambule de la revendication 1.The document US2016040698 describes a watch case with removable horns according to the preamble of claim 1.

Il existe donc un besoin pour une boîte de montre à cornes amovibles exempte des limitations des boîtes de montres ci-dessus, ou qui présente un meilleur compromis entre les avantages et les inconvénients des diverses solutions.There is therefore a need for a watch case with removable horns which is free from the limitations of the above watch cases, or which presents a better compromise between the advantages and disadvantages of the various solutions.

Il existe aussi un besoin pour un procédé simplifié de montage et démontage des cornes.There is also a need for a simplified method of mounting and dismounting the horns.

Il existe aussi un besoin pour un procédé simplifié de montage et démontage du bracelet.There is also a need for a simplified method of assembling and disassembling the bracelet.

Bref résumé de l'inventionBrief summary of the invention

Selon l'invention, ces buts sont atteints notamment au moyen d'une boîte de montre comportant :

  • une carrure ;
  • au moins une paire de cornes destinée au maintien d'un brin de bracelet et maintenue sur la carrure grâce à un verrou commutable entre une position de verrouillage des cornes et une position de libération des cornes;
  • le verrou comportant un premier organe lié à la carrure, et un deuxième organe complémentaire au premier organe et monté sur la paire de cornes;
  • un organe de manipulation monté sur la paire de cornes et permettant de déplacer le deuxième organe pour commuter le verrou entre la position de verrouillage et la position de libération des cornes.
According to the invention, these aims are achieved in particular by means of a watch case comprising:
  • a middle part;
  • at least one pair of horns intended to hold a strand of bracelet and held on the middle with a switchable lock between a position for locking the horns and a position for releasing the horns;
  • the lock comprising a first member linked to the middle part, and a second member complementary to the first member and mounted on the pair of horns;
  • a manipulation member mounted on the pair of horns and making it possible to move the second member to switch the latch between the locking position and the release position of the horns.

Cette solution présente notamment l'avantage de simplifier la fabrication de la carrure qui est dépourvue de cornes et dépourvue d'organe de manipulation du verrou. Elle peut donc être très fine, et simple à usiner.This solution has the advantage in particular of simplifying the manufacture of the middle part which is devoid of horns and devoid of a member for handling the lock. It can therefore be very fine, and simple to machine.

La complexité se déplace sur les paires de cornes, qui supportent l'organe de manipulation du verrou. Les cornes sont constituées par des pièces de petites dimensions, habituellement fabriquées par fraisage et qui sont plus faciles à usiner dans des formes complexes.The complexity moves on the pairs of horns, which support the handle of the lock. The horns are made up of small parts, usually made by milling and which are easier to machine into complex shapes.

En déportant l'organe de manipulation sur les cornes, on facilite aussi sa manipulation. Par ailleurs, la face inférieure des cornes n'appuie pas fortement sur le poignet, ce qui limite le risque de blesser la peau avec l'organe de manipulation.By deporting the handling member to the horns, it also facilitates its handling. Furthermore, the underside of the horns does not press strongly on the wrist, which limits the risk of injuring the skin with the manipulation member.

L'organe de manipulation est de préférence manipulable à la main, par exemple avec un doigt.The manipulation member is preferably manipulable by hand, for example with a finger.

L'organe de manipulation est de préférence manipulable sans outil.The handling member can preferably be handled without tools.

L'organe de manipulation reste de préférence lié à la paire de cornes lors de la libération de la paire de cornes et lors du démontage du bracelet; tout risque de perte de vis, de goupilles ou d'autres pièces lors du démontage des cornes ou du bracelet est donc éliminé.The handling member preferably remains linked to the pair of horns when the pair of horns is released and when the bracelet; any risk of losing screws, pins or other parts when removing the horns or bracelet is therefore eliminated.

La boîte de montre peut comporter un élément de rappel élastique, par exemple un ressort, monté sur la paire de cornes afin de repousser l'organe de manipulation, ainsi que de préférence le deuxième organe du verrou, en position de verrouillage.The watch case may include an elastic return element, for example a spring, mounted on the pair of horns in order to push the manipulation member, as well as preferably the second lock member, into the locking position.

L'organe de manipulation peut être prévu sur les cornes du côté fond, c'est-à-dire du côté des cornes faisant face au poignet lors du porter de la montre. Il est donc dissimulé lors du porter de la montre, et protégé des risques de manipulation involontaire.The manipulation member can be provided on the horns on the back side, that is to say on the side of the horns facing the wrist when wearing the watch. It is therefore concealed when wearing the watch, and protected from risks of unintentional handling.

L'organe de manipulation et le deuxième organe du verrou peuvent former deux parties d'une même pièce.The manipulation member and the second lock member can form two parts of the same part.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'organe de manipulation peut être manipulé entre la position de verrouillage et la position de libération en le déplaçant dans une direction verticale. La direction verticale est perpendiculaire au plan horizontal, lui-même défini comme étant le plan du fond de la montre.In one embodiment, the manipulation member can be manipulated between the locked position and the release position by moving it in a vertical direction. The vertical direction is perpendicular to the horizontal plane, itself defined as the plane of the back of the watch.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le premier organe du verrou est constitué par un pêne lié de manière fixe à la carrure. Le deuxième organe du verrou est constitué par une gâche déplaçable par rapport à la paire de cornes, entre la position de verrouillage du pêne et la position de libération du pêne.In one embodiment, the first member of the lock is constituted by a bolt fixedly connected to the middle part. The second member of the bolt is constituted by a striker movable relative to the pair of horns, between the bolt locking position and the bolt release position.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le premier organe du verrou s'étend radialement sur une face latérale de la carrure. Cet organe peut être en forme d'ancre avec une verge centrale qui se termine par deux jas latéraux. Le deuxième organe du verrou comporte une fenêtre traversée par le premier organe du verrou en position de verrouillage. Cette fenêtre, formant une gâche mobile, comporte une portion élargie permettant l'insertion et l'extraction du premier organe du verrou, et une portion étroite empêchant l'insertion et l'extraction du premier organe du verrou. Le premier organe du verrou (en forme d'ancre) traverse la portion étroite de la fenêtre lorsque l'élément de rappel élastique monté sur la paire de cornes repousse le deuxième organe du verrou dans la position de verrouillage, mais est empêché de ressortir par les jas de l'ancre qui ne peuvent pas traverser la portion étroite de la fenêtre.In one embodiment, the first member of the lock extends radially over a lateral face of the middle part. This body can be in the form of an anchor with a central rod which ends in two lateral jas. The second lock member has a window through which the first lock member is in the locked position. This window, forming a movable keeper, has an enlarged portion allowing the insertion and extraction of the first member of the lock, and a narrow portion preventing the insertion and extraction of the first member of the lock. The first lock member (anchor-shaped) passes through the narrow portion of the window when the elastic return element mounted on the pair of lugs pushes the second lock member into the locked position, but is prevented from coming out by the anchor jas which cannot cross the narrow portion of the window.

L'élément de rappel élastique peut être constitué par une ou plusieurs lames ressorts en appui sur le deuxième organe du verrou.The elastic return element may consist of one or more leaf springs bearing on the second member of the lock.

Les lames ressort peuvent agir selon une direction verticale, afin de repousser le deuxième organe du verrou dans une direction verticale.The spring leaves can act in a vertical direction, in order to push the second member of the lock in a vertical direction.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation, la direction de déplacement de l'organe de manipulation entre la position de verrouillage et la position de libération est sensiblement parallèle au plan horizontal. Cette variante permet de réduire le contact entre l'organe de manipulation et le poignet de l'utilisateur, et donc de limiter le risque de blesser l'utilisateur.In another embodiment, the direction of movement of the handling member between the locking position and the release position is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. This variant makes it possible to reduce the contact between the handling member and the wrist of the user, and therefore to limit the risk of injuring the user.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le deuxième organe du verrou peut pivoter autour d'un axe perpendiculaire au plan horizontal entre la position de verrouillage et la position de manipulation. Cet axe peut être lié à la paire de cornes.In one embodiment, the second lock member can pivot about an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane between the locking position and the handling position. This axis can be linked to the pair of horns.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le premier organe du verrou est constitué par une gorge ou une autre gâche dans une face latérale de la carrure. Le deuxième organe du verrou est constitué par un pêne ou une autre portion engagée dans cette gorge en position de verrouillage, et hors de la gorge en position de libération.In one embodiment, the first member of the lock is constituted by a groove or another keeper in a lateral face of the middle part. The second member of the lock is constituted by a bolt or another portion engaged in this groove in the locked position, and out of the groove in the release position.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'organe de manipulation peut être constitué par un bouton mobile actionnable par l'utilisateur et agissant sur le deuxième organe du verrou en position de libération afin de le déverrouiller. L'organe de manipulation et le deuxième organe du verrou sont ainsi constitués par deux pièces distinctes, ce qui permet si souhaité de les fabriquer dans des matériaux différents et optimisés en fonction de leurs exigences propres.In one embodiment, the manipulation member may consist of a movable button operable by the user and acting on the second member of the lock in the release position in order to unlock it. The handling member and the second member of the lock are thus constituted by two separate parts, which allows if desired to manufacture them in different materials and optimized according to their own requirements.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le deuxième organe du verrou peut translater radialement dans le plan horizontal entre la position de verrouillage et la position de libération.In one embodiment, the second lock member can translate radially in the horizontal plane between the locking position and the release position.

L'organe de manipulation peut être manipulé horizontale.The manipulation member can be manipulated horizontally.

L'organe de rappel peut repousser l'organe de manipulation dans une direction sensiblement horizontale, orientée vers l'extérieur de la montre.The return member can push the handling member in a substantially horizontal direction, oriented towards the outside of the watch.

La paire de cornes permet de maintenir un brin du bracelet.The pair of horns allows to maintain a strand of the bracelet.

Deux paires de cornes peuvent être prévues pour maintenir les deux brins du bracelet.Two pairs of horns can be provided to hold the two strands of the bracelet.

Une portion du bracelet peut être prise en sandwich entre la paire de cornes et une portion de la carrure.A portion of the bracelet can be sandwiched between the pair of horns and a portion of the middle.

L'arrangement peut comporter un empilement vertical comportant, de bas en haut : une portion de la paire de cornes; l'extrémité du bracelet, insérée sur cette portion et entre les deux cornes; une portion de la carrure.The arrangement may include a vertical stack comprising, from bottom to top: a portion of the pair of horns; the end of the bracelet, inserted on this portion and between the two horns; a portion of the middle.

Le démontage ou le remplacement du bracelet peut nécessiter le démontage des cornes.Disassembly or replacement of the bracelet may require disassembly of the lugs.

Le maintien du bracelet est ainsi facilité. Le bracelet est ainsi plus simple et plus économique à réaliser. La complexité de la liaison amovible est reportée sur les paires de cornes, qui sont des pièces durables.Maintaining the bracelet is thus facilitated. The bracelet is thus simpler and more economical to make. The complexity of the removable link is carried over to the pairs of horns, which are durable parts.

Une bille sur ressort peut être prévue dans le bracelet afin de le positionner le bracelet par rapport à la paire de cornes.A spring ball may be provided in the bracelet in order to position the bracelet relative to the pair of horns.

La demande a aussi pour objet une méthode d'assemblage d'un bracelet sur une boîte de montre, comportant les étapes suivantes :

  • insertion du bracelet dans une paire de cornes;
  • insertion de l'ensemble formé du bracelet et de la paire de cornes sur une face extérieure de la boîte de montre;
  • verrouillage de l'assemblage en manipulant un organe de manipulation monté sur la paire de cornes.
The request also relates to a method of assembling a bracelet on a watch case, comprising the following steps:
  • insertion of the bracelet into a pair of horns;
  • insertion of the assembly formed by the bracelet and the pair of horns on an external face of the watch case;
  • locking the assembly by manipulating a manipulation member mounted on the pair of horns.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of the figures

Des exemples de mise en oeuvre de l'invention sont indiqués dans la description illustrée par les figures annexées dans lesquelles :

  • La figure 1 illustre une vue de côté d'une boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, avant l'assemblage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 2 illustre une vue de côté d'une boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, après l'assemblage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 3 illustre une vue de dessous d'une boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, avant l'assemblage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 4 illustre une vue en coupe radiale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, après l'assemblage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 5 illustre une vue en coupe horizontale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, après l'assemblage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 6 illustre une vue en perspective d'une paire de cornes et d'un deuxième organe du verrou, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 7 illustre une vue en perspective d'une paire de cornes et d'un brin de bracelet avant l'assemblage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 8 illustre une vue en coupe radiale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, lors de l'assemblage de la paire de cornes, et avant leur verrouillage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 9 illustre une vue en coupe radiale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, lors de l'assemblage de la paire de cornes, et après leur verrouillage, selon un premier mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 10 illustre une vue de côté d'une boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, avant l'assemblage, selon un deuxième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 11 illustre une vue de dessous d'une boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, avant l'assemblage, selon un deuxième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 12 illustre une vue en perspective d'une paire de cornes et d'un deuxième organe du verrou, selon un deuxième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 13 illustre une vue en coupe radiale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, lors de l'assemblage de la paire de cornes, et après leur verrouillage, selon un deuxième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 14 illustre un brin de bracelet et une paire de cornes, avant leur assemblage.
  • La figure 15 illustre une vue de dessous d'une boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, avant l'assemblage, selon un troisième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 16 illustre une vue en perspective d'une paire de cornes et d'un deuxième organe du verrou, selon un troisième mode de réalisation, l'organe de manipulation étant en position de verrouillage.
  • La figure 17 illustre une vue en perspective d'une paire de cornes et d'un deuxième organe du verrou, selon un troisième mode de réalisation, l'organe de manipulation étant en position de libération.
  • La figure 18 illustre une vue en coupe horizontale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, après l'assemblage, selon un troisième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 19 illustre un brin de bracelet et une paire de cornes, avant leur assemblage, selon le troisième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 20 illustre une vue en coupe radiale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes (sans le bracelet), et après leur verrouillage, selon un quatrième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 21 illustre une vue de dessous d'une boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes avec un brin de bracelet, avant l'assemblage, selon un quatrième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 22 illustre une vue en coupe verticale d'une portion de boîte de montre et d'une paire de cornes (sans le bracelet), montrant les formes complémentaires utilisées pour leur assemblage.
  • La figure 23 illustre une vue en perspective et, depuis le dessous d'une paire de cornes sans le bracelet, selon un cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 24 illustre une vue en perspective de la paire de cornes de la figure 23, l'organe de manipulation étant enfoncé en position de libération.
  • La figure 25 illustre une vue en éclaté d'une paire de cornes sans le bracelet, selon le cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 26 illustre une autre vue en éclaté d'une paire de cornes sans le bracelet, selon le cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 27 illustre une vue en coupe radiale d'une paire de cornes sans le bracelet, selon le cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'organe de manipulation étant en position de verrouillage.
  • La figure 28 illustre une vue en coupe radiale d'une paire de cornes sans le bracelet, selon le cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'organe de manipulation étant en position de libération.
  • La figure 29 illustre une vue en perspective radiale d'une paire de cornes selon le cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention, illustrant en particulier les formes complémentaires pour le guidage sur la carrure.
Examples of implementation of the invention are indicated in the description illustrated by the appended figures in which:
  • The figure 1 illustrates a side view of a watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, before assembly, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 2 illustrates a side view of a watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, after assembly, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 3 illustrates a bottom view of a watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, before assembly, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 4 illustrates a radial sectional view of a portion of the watch case and of a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, after assembly, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 5 illustrates a horizontal sectional view of a portion of the watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, after assembly, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of a pair of horns and a second member of the lock, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of a pair of horns and a bracelet strand before assembly, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 8 illustrates a view in radial section of a portion of the watch case and of a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, during the assembly of the pair of horns, and before their locking, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 9 illustrates a view in radial section of a portion of the watch case and of a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, during the assembly of the pair of horns, and after their locking, according to a first embodiment.
  • The figure 10 illustrates a side view of a watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, before assembly, according to a second embodiment.
  • The figure 11 illustrates a bottom view of a watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, before assembly, according to a second embodiment.
  • The figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of a pair of horns and a second member of the lock, according to a second embodiment.
  • The figure 13 illustrates a view in radial section of a portion of the watch case and of a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, during the assembly of the pair of horns, and after their locking, according to a second embodiment.
  • The figure 14 illustrates a bracelet strand and a pair of horns, before their assembly.
  • The figure 15 illustrates a bottom view of a watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, before assembly, according to a third embodiment.
  • The figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of a pair of horns and a second lock member, according to a third embodiment, the handling member being in the locked position.
  • The figure 17 illustrates a perspective view of a pair of horns and a second member of the lock, according to a third embodiment, the handling member being in the release position.
  • The figure 18 illustrates a horizontal sectional view of a portion of the watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, after assembly, according to a third embodiment.
  • The figure 19 illustrates a bracelet strand and a pair of horns, before their assembly, according to the third embodiment.
  • The figure 20 illustrates a view in radial section of a portion of the watch case and of a pair of horns (without the strap), and after their locking, according to a fourth embodiment.
  • The figure 21 illustrates a bottom view of a watch case and a pair of horns with a bracelet strand, before assembly, according to a fourth embodiment.
  • The figure 22 illustrates a vertical section view of a portion of the watch case and a pair of horns (without the strap), showing the complementary shapes used for their assembly.
  • The figure 23 illustrates a perspective view and, from below a pair of horns without the bracelet, according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.
  • The figure 24 illustrates a perspective view of the pair of horns of the figure 23 , the handling member being pushed into the release position.
  • The figure 25 illustrates an exploded view of a pair of horns without the bracelet, according to the fifth embodiment of the invention.
  • The figure 26 illustrates another exploded view of a pair of horns without the bracelet, according to the fifth embodiment of the invention.
  • The figure 27 illustrates a view in radial section of a pair of horns without the bracelet, according to the fifth embodiment of the invention, the handling member being in the locked position.
  • The figure 28 illustrates a radial sectional view of a pair of horns without the bracelet, according to the fifth embodiment of the invention, the handling member being in the release position.
  • The figure 29 illustrates a radial perspective view of a pair of horns according to the fifth embodiment of the invention, illustrating in particular the complementary shapes for guiding on the middle.

Exemple(s) de mode de réalisation de l'inventionExample (s) of embodiment of the invention

Un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention est illustré sur les figures 1 à 9.A first embodiment of the invention is illustrated on the Figures 1 to 9 .

La figure 1 illustre une boîte de montre comportant une carrure 1A et une paire de cornes amovible 3A, sur laquelle est monté un brin de bracelet 5. Une autre paire de corne amovible et un autre brin de bracelet non représentés peuvent être montés du côté opposé de la carrure. La figure 3 est une vue de dessous de ces éléments.The figure 1 illustrates a watch case comprising a middle part 1A and a pair of removable horns 3A, on which is mounted a strand of bracelet 5. Another pair of removable horn and another strand of bracelet not shown can be mounted on the opposite side of the middle . The figure 3 is a bottom view of these elements.

Le brin de bracelet 5 est inséré provisoirement dans la paire de cornes 3 (ici 3A) en le déplaçant verticalement (c'est-à-dire dans une direction sensiblement perpendiculaire au plan du fond de la montre). L'ensemble formé des cornes et du bracelet est ensuite assemblé sur la carrure 1 (ici 1A - figure 2). Cet assemblage de la paire de cornes 3 sur la carrure 1 permet aussi de maintenir le brin de bracelet en empêchant son extraction axiale comme dans les autres modes de réalisation.The bracelet strand 5 is temporarily inserted into the pair of horns 3 (here 3A) by moving it vertically (that is to say in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the bottom of the watch). The assembly formed by the horns and the bracelet is then assembled on the middle part 1 (here 1A - figure 2 ). This assembly of the pair of horns 3 on the middle part 1 also makes it possible to maintain the bracelet strand by preventing its axial extraction as in the other embodiments.

Un verrou comportant un premier organe 10A fixe et lié à la boîte de montre et un deuxième organe 31A (figure 4) permet de verrouiller l'assemblage entre la paire de cornes 3A et la carrure 1A. La paire de cornes 3A, et donc le brin de bracelet 5, peuvent uniquement être libérés de la carrure en manipulant le deuxième organe du verrou pour le déplacer depuis la position de verrouillage vers une position de libération, comme on le verra plus bas.A lock comprising a first fixed member 10A linked to the watch case and a second member 31A ( figure 4 ) allows to lock the assembly between the pair of horns 3A and the middle part 1A. The pair of horns 3A, and therefore the bracelet strand 5, can only be released from the middle by manipulating the second member of the lock to move it from the locked position to a release position, as will be seen below.

La figure 6 illustre une des deux paires de cornes 3A ainsi que le deuxième organe de verrouillage 31A. Cet organe 31A peut coulisser verticalement dans deux fentes 37 ménagées dans la paire de cornes 3A. Un élément de rappel élastique, formé ici de deux lames élastiques 34A (figure 7), exerce une force de rappel sur le deuxième organe du verrou afin de le repousser en position de verrouillage, c'est-à-dire vers le bas de la figure.The figure 6 illustrates one of the two pairs of horns 3A as well as the second locking member 31A. This member 31A can slide vertically in two slots 37 formed in the pair of horns 3A. An elastic return element, here formed of two elastic blades 34A ( figure 7 ), exerts a restoring force on the second member of the lock in order to push it back into the locked position, that is to say downwards in the figure.

Le deuxième organe de verrouillage 31A constitue une partie d'une pièce qui comporte également un organe de manipulation 30A. L'organe de manipulation est visible sous la face interne de la paire de cornes, comme on le voit par exemple sur la figure 3. L'utilisateur peut le manipuler, sans le moindre outil, afin de repousser le deuxième organe de verrouillage vers le haut de la figure, c'est-à-dire en position de libération du verrou.The second locking member 31A constitutes a part of a part which also includes a handling member 30A. The manipulator is visible under the internal face of the pair of horns, as seen for example on the figure 3 . The user can manipulate it, without the slightest tool, in order to push the second locking member up towards the top of the figure, that is to say in the release position of the lock.

Le deuxième organe de verrouillage 31A comporte une fenêtre 310 constituant une gâche dans laquelle le premier organe 10A peut être inséré. Dans ce mode de réalisation, le verrouillage de la paire de cornes 3A sur la carrure 1A se fait donc avec un mécanisme de verrou avec un pêne fixe lié à la carrure, et une gâche coulissante liée à la paire de cornes. Le premier organe 10A du verrou a une forme d'ancre avec une verge et deux jars s'étendant de chaque côté à l'extrémité de la verge. La fenêtre 310 a une forme en T inversé avec une portion élargie 312 permettant l'insertion ou l'extraction du premier organe 10A, et une portion plus étroite 311 empêchant le passage de ce premier organe 10A.The second locking member 31A has a window 310 constituting a keeper in which the first member 10A can be inserted. In this embodiment, the locking of the pair of horns 3A on the middle part 1A is therefore done with a locking mechanism with a fixed bolt linked to the middle part, and a sliding keeper linked to the pair of horns. The first member 10A of the lock has an anchor shape with a rod and two jars extending on each side at the end of the rod. The window 310 has an inverted T shape with an enlarged portion 312 allowing the insertion or extraction of the first member 10A, and a narrower portion 311 preventing the passage of this first member 10A.

Le bracelet est inséré provisoirement entre les deux cornes de la paire 3A, avent le montage de cette paire sur la carrure 1A. Des formes complémentaires 53 à l'extrémité du bracelet et dans l'entre-cornes permettent un emboîtage. L'extrémité du bracelet 5 est en outre maintenue en position au moyen d'une bille 50 sur ressort 51 qui vient se positionner dans un logement 35 (figure 8) ménagé entre les deux cornes de la paire 3A.The bracelet is provisionally inserted between the two horns of the pair 3A, before mounting this pair on the middle 1A. Complementary shapes 53 at the end of the bracelet and in the inter-horns allow fitting. The end of the bracelet 5 is also held in position by means of a ball 50 on spring 51 which is positioned in a housing 35 ( figure 8 ) formed between the two horns of pair 3A.

De la même façon, le positionnement de la paire de cornes 3A sur la face externe de la carrure 1A est obtenu grâce à l'emboitement des formes complémentaires 38 sur la paire de cornes 3A et 13 sur les faces latérales de la carrure 1A.In the same way, the positioning of the pair of horns 3A on the external face of the middle part 1A is obtained thanks to the interlocking of the complementary shapes 38 on the pair of horns 3A and 13 on the lateral faces of the middle part 1A.

Les figures 4, 5 et 8, 9 illustrent différentes vues en coupe de la paire de cornes 3A assemblée sur la carrure 1A. La figure 8 illustre la position des différents éléments avant le verrouillage. Sur cette figure, le deuxième organe 31A est repoussé vers le bas, en position de verrouillage, par le ressort de rappel 34A.The figures 4, 5 and 8 , 9 illustrate different sectional views of the pair of horns 3A assembled on the middle part 1A. The figure 8 illustrates the position of the various elements before locking. In this figure, the second member 31A is pushed down, in the locked position, by the return spring 34A.

En poussant la paire de cornes 3A et le brin de bracelet 5 radialement contre la carrure 1A, la pression d'une portion inclinée à l'extrémité du premier organe 10A contre le deuxième organe 31A fait remonter ce dernier en position de libération, ce qui permet au premier organe 10A de traverser la fenêtre 310. Le deuxième organe 31A redescend ensuite sous l'action du ressort de rappel 34A, ce qui a pour effet de verrouiller le premier organe 10A et donc de maintenir l'assemblage carrure-paire de cornes, dans la position illustrée sur les figure 4, 5 et 9.By pushing the pair of horns 3A and the bracelet strand 5 radially against the middle part 1A, the pressure of an inclined portion at the end of the first member 10A against the second member 31A brings the latter back into the release position, which allows the first member 10A to pass through the window 310. The second member 31A then descends under the action of the return spring 34A, which has the effect of locking the first member 10A and therefore of maintaining the middle part-pair of horns assembly , in the position illustrated on the figure 4, 5 and 9 .

La paire de cornes 3A peut uniquement être libérée en manipulant l'organe de manipulation 30A pour redescendre la fenêtre 310 en position de libération, permettant l'extraction du premier organe 10A.The pair of horns 3A can only be released by manipulating the handling member 30A to lower the window 310 into the release position, allowing the extraction of the first member 10A.

Le brin de bracelet 5 est maintenu entre la paire de cornes 3 (ici 3A) et la carrure 1 (ici 1A), et ne peut donc pas être retiré sans déverrouiller puis retirer la paire de cornes 3. Plus précisément, comme on le voit notamment sur la figure 4, une portion 52 à l'extrémité longitudinale du brin de bracelet 5 est maintenue en sandwich entre une portion 12 de la carrure 1A et la paire de cornes 3A. Dans le plan horizontal, le déplacement du brin de bracelet 5 est limité par les deux cornes de la paire 3A.The bracelet strand 5 is held between the pair of horns 3 (here 3A) and the middle 1 (here 1A), and therefore cannot be removed without unlocking and then removing the pair of horns 3. More precisely, as seen especially on the figure 4 , a portion 52 at the longitudinal end of the bracelet strand 5 is sandwiched between a portion 12 of the middle part 1A and the pair of horns 3A. In the horizontal plane, the movement of the bracelet strand 5 is limited by the two horns of the pair 3A.

Un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention est illustré sur les figures 10 à 14. Comme on le voit sur les figures 10 et 11, il comporte à nouveau une boîte de montre avec une carrure 1B, des paires de cornes amovibles 3B, et un bracelet 5 maintenu entre ces cornes 3B et la carrure 1B. Des formes complémentaires 13 sur la carrure et 38 sur la paire de cornes peuvent s'emboiter pour assurer l'assemblage de ces éléments avant leur verrouillage. Comme dans les autres modes de réalisation, des formes complémentaires permettent aussi d'emboîter l'extrémité du brin de bracelet 5 contre la face externe de la paire de cornes 3B, avant leur maintien par l'assemblage de la paire de corne sur la carrure 1B.A second embodiment of the invention is illustrated on the figures 10 to 14 . As seen on figures 10 and 11 , it again comprises a watch case with a middle part 1B, pairs of removable horns 3B, and a bracelet 5 held between these horns 3B and the middle part 1B. Complementary shapes 13 on the middle and 38 on the pair of horns can fit together to ensure the assembly of these elements before they are locked. As in the other embodiments, complementary shapes also make it possible to fit the end of the bracelet strand 5 against the external face of the pair of horns 3B, before their maintenance by the assembly of the pair of horns on the middle 1B.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, comme dans les modes de réalisation 3, 4 et 5 décrits plus bas, les paires de cornes 3B sont montées sur la carrure 1B par un mouvement axial, c'est-à-dire vertical. Les formes complémentaires 13 sur la carrure 1B constituent des glissières et permettent de guider axialement ce déplacement relatif des paires de cornes 3B par rapport à la carrure 1B.In this embodiment, as in embodiments 3, 4 and 5 described below, the pairs of horns 3B are mounted on the middle part 1B by an axial movement, that is to say vertical. The complementary shapes 13 on the middle part 1B constitute slides and make it possible to guide this relative displacement of the pairs of horns 3B axially with respect to the middle part 1B.

Le verrou permettant de bloquer cet assemblage une fois que les cornes sont en position est constitué dans ce mode de réalisation par une gorge 10B sur la face latérale de la carrure 1B (premier organe), et par un deuxième organe 31B mobile en rotation et monté sur la paire de cornes 3B, afin de bloquer son déplacement axial. Le deuxième organe 31B peut pivoter autour d'un axe vertical 39 sous la face inférieure de la paire de cornes, entre une position de verrouillage engagée dans la gorge 10B (figure 13), et une position de libération permettant de monter ou de démonter la paire de cornes 3B. A cet effet, le deuxième organe 31B est lié à un organe de manipulation 30B qui permet de l'extraire dans la position de libération, en le faisant pivoter autour de l'axe 39. Un ressort de rappel 34B, par exemple un ressort fil, exerce une pression d'appui du deuxième organe 31B au fond de la gorge 10B. Les autres aspects de ce deuxième mode de réalisation peuvent être identiques ou équivalents à ceux du premier mode de réalisation.The lock making it possible to block this assembly once the horns are in position is constituted in this embodiment by a groove 10B on the lateral face of the middle part 1B (first member), and by a second member 31B movable in rotation and mounted on the pair of horns 3B, in order to block its axial movement. The second member 31B can pivot around a vertical axis 39 under the underside of the pair of horns, between a locking position engaged in the groove 10B ( figure 13 ), and a release position for mounting or dismounting the pair of horns 3B. To this end, the second member 31B is linked to a handling member 30B which makes it possible to extract it in the release position, by pivoting it around the axis 39. A return spring 34B, for example a wire spring , exerts a pressing pressure of the second member 31B at the bottom of the groove 10B. The other aspects of this second embodiment can be identical or equivalent to those of the first embodiment.

Un troisième mode de réalisation est illustré sur les figures 15 à 19. Comme sur le deuxième mode de réalisation, le déverrouillage de la paire de cornes 3 sur la carrure 1C est obtenu en déplaçant un deuxième organe 31C du verrou par un mouvement de rotation autour d'un axe 39 lié à la paire de cornes 3C, de manière à le dégager du premier organe 10C constitué par une gorge sur la périphérie de la carrure 1C. Un ressort de rappel 34c repousse ce deuxième organe au fond de la gorge en position de verrouillage, de manière à empêcher le déplacement axial de la paire de cornes 3C par rapport à la carrure. Le verrou empêche donc la séparation de la paire de cornes 3C par rapport à la carrure 1C.A third embodiment is illustrated on the Figures 15 to 19 . As in the second embodiment, the unlocking of the pair of horns 3 on the middle part 1C is obtained by moving a second member 31C of the lock by a rotational movement around an axis 39 linked to the pair of horns 3C, so as to release it from the first member 10C constituted by a groove on the periphery of the middle part 1C. A return spring 34c pushes this second member to the bottom of the groove in the locked position, so as to prevent the axial displacement of the pair of horns 3C relative to the middle part. The lock therefore prevents the separation of the pair of horns 3C with respect to the middle part 1C.

Toutefois, dans ce mode de réalisation, l'organe de manipulation 30C est constitué par une pièce distincte du deuxième organe 31C du verrou. Dans cet exemple, l'organe de manipulation est constitué par un bouton coulissant dans un plan horizontal entre les positions de verrouillage et de libération. L'organe de manipulation 30C et le deuxième organe 31B sont liés l'un à l'autre par une goupille traversant une ouverture oblongue sous la face inférieure de la paire de cornes.However, in this embodiment, the handling member 30C is constituted by a separate piece from the second member 31C of the lock. In this example, the handling member is constituted by a button sliding in a horizontal plane between the locking and release positions. The handling member 30C and the second member 31B are linked to each other by a pin passing through an oblong opening under the underside of the pair of horns.

Les figures 20 à 22 illustrent un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention. Dans cet exemple, le premier organe du verrou est constitué par une gorge 10D formant une gâche à la périphérie de la carrure 1D. Le deuxième organe du verrou est constitué par un pêne 31D à l'extrémité d'une targette comportant un organe de manipulation 30D sous la face inférieure de la paire de cornes 3D. Un ressort de rappel 34D logé dans un trou borgne 32 sur la face de la paire de cornes 3D repousse la targette de manière à engager le second organe 31D (pêne) dans la gorge 10D (gâche). Dans cette position verrouillée, le verrou empêche le déplacement axial de la paire de cornes par rapport à la carrure 1D. L'organe de manipulation 30D peut être tiré vers l'extérieur afin de dégager les deux organes du verrou et d'insérer ou d'extraire la paire de cornes en la déplaçant axialement par rapport à la carrure 1D.The figures 20 to 22 illustrate a fourth embodiment of the invention. In this example, the first member of the lock is constituted by a groove 10D forming a keeper at the periphery of the middle part 1D. The second member of the lock consists of a bolt 31D at the end of a bolt comprising a handling member 30D under the underside of the pair of 3D horns. A return spring 34D housed in a blind hole 32 on the face of the pair of horns 3D pushes the bolt so as to engage the second member 31D (bolt) in the groove 10D (keeper). In this locked position, the lock prevents the axial displacement of the pair of horns relative to the middle part 1D. The manipulation member 30D can be pulled outwards in order to disengage the two members of the lock and to insert or extract the pair of horns by moving it axially relative to the middle part 1D.

Les figures 23 à 28 illustrent un cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention. Dans cet exemple, le premier organe du verrou est à nouveau constitué par une gorge 10E (fig. 27) formant une gâche à la périphérie de la carrure 1E et empêchant l'extraction de la paire de cornes 3E selon un mouvement vertical (axial). Le deuxième organe du verrou est constitué par un pêne 31E qui se déplace radialement dans cette gorge, en étant guidé dans ce déplacement par une ouverture 310 sur la face interne de la paire de cornes 3E.The figures 23 to 28 illustrate a fifth embodiment of the invention. In this example, the first member of the lock again consists of a groove 10E ( Fig. 27 ) forming a keeper at the periphery of the middle part 1E and preventing the extraction of the pair of horns 3E according to a vertical (axial) movement. The second member of the lock is constituted by a bolt 31E which moves radially in this groove, while being guided in this movement by an opening 310 on the internal face of the pair of horns 3E.

En position de verrouillage, le deuxième organe 31E est repoussé au fond de la gorge 10E par deux ressorts de rappel 34E liés à la paire de cornes 3E, ici des ressorts hélicoïdaux visibles notamment sur les figures 25 et 26.In the locked position, the second member 31E is pushed back to the bottom of the groove 10E by two return springs 34E linked to the pair of horns 3E, here helical springs visible in particular on the figures 25 and 26 .

En position de libération, le deuxième organe 31E est déplacé radialement en direction de l'extérieur de la montre, contre l'action des ressorts de rappel 34E. Ce déplacement est obtenu grâce à l'organe de manipulation 30E constitué par un bouton poussoir sous la face interne de la paire de cornes. Le bouton 30E comporte une tige 301 dont l'extrémité forme un biseau 303. Ce biseau 303 s'appuie contre un biseau complémentaire 311 sous le deuxième organe 31E, de manière à déplacer ce deuxième organe 31E entre la position de verrouillage illustrée sur la figure 28 et la position de libération illustrée sur la figure 28. Dans cette position de libération, l'extrémité du deuxième organe 31E est entièrement rentrée à l'intérieur des cornes et ne dépasse plus en saillie au-delà de la fenêtre 310.In the release position, the second member 31E is moved radially towards the outside of the watch, against the action of the return springs 34E. This movement is obtained thanks to the handling member 30E constituted by a push button under the internal face of the pair of horns. The button 30E comprises a rod 301, the end of which forms a bevel 303. This bevel 303 bears against a complementary bevel 311 under the second member 31E, so as to move this second member 31E between the locking position illustrated on the figure 28 and the release position illustrated on the figure 28 . In this release position, the end of the second member 31E is fully retracted inside the horns and no longer projects beyond the window 310.

L'organe de manipulation 30E est guidé dans son déplacement vertical par un couvercle 300 traversé par la tige 301. Des billes sur ressort 304 exercent une force pour repousser cet organe lorsqu'il n'est pas enfoncé. Des goupilles 302 de part et d'autre de la tige 301 permettent en outre d'assurer un déplacement vertical de l'organe de manipulation 30E.The manipulation member 30E is guided in its vertical movement by a cover 300 crossed by the rod 301. Balls on spring 304 exert a force to push this member when it is not pressed. Pins 302 on either side of the rod 301 also make it possible to ensure vertical movement of the handling member 30E.

L'ensemble du dispositif est caché par un capot 322 vissé au moyen de vis 320 sur l'entrecorne.The entire device is hidden by a cover 322 screwed by means of screws 320 on the spacer.

L'extrémité du deuxième organe 31E est munie d'un biais biseauté pour permettre son retrait lors de l'insertion de la paire de cornes sur la carrure 1E.The end of the second member 31E is provided with a beveled bias to allow its removal during the insertion of the pair of horns on the middle part 1E.

Comme déjà mentionné, l'emboîtement de chaque paire de cornes sur la carrure 1 des modes de réalisation 2 à 5 est obtenu par un déplacement relatif axial, selon l'axe vertical ; le verrou permet de maintenir la position emboîtée.As already mentioned, the nesting of each pair of horns on the middle part 1 of embodiments 2 to 5 is obtained by a relative axial displacement, along the vertical axis; the lock keeps the nested position.

Ce déplacement vertical est guidé grâce à l'ajustement de formes complémentaires 38 sur la paire de cornes 3 et 13 sur la carrure 1. Sur le mode de réalisation de la figure 22, ces formes complémentaires incluent des goupilles 33 engagées dans des trous borgnes de la carrure et de la paire de cornes 3. Sur le mode de réalisation des figures 23 à 29, les formes complémentaires 38 sur la paire de cornes 3E inclut deux fraisures en bout (rainures borgnes). Cet élément de guidage 38 nécessite seulement une profondeur peu importante et est entièrement dissimulé lorsque la paire de cornes est montée.This vertical movement is guided by the adjustment of complementary shapes 38 on the pair of horns 3 and 13 on the middle part 1. On the embodiment of the figure 22 , these complementary forms include pins 33 engaged in blind holes in the middle part and the pair of horns 3. In the embodiment of the figures 23 to 29 , the complementary shapes 38 on the pair of horns 3E include two end mills (blind grooves). This guide element 38 requires only a small depth and is completely concealed when the pair of horns is mounted.

Numéros de référence employés sur les figuresReference numbers used in the figures

11
Carrureshoulders
33
Paire de cornesPair of horns
55
Brin de braceletBracelet strand
1010
Premier organe du verrou, lié à la carrureFirst lock member, linked to the middle part
1111
Face latérale de la carrureSide face of the middle
1212
Portion de la carrure prenant en sandwich le braceletPortion of the middle sandwiching the bracelet
1313
Forme complémentaireComplementary form
3030
Organe de manipulationHandling device
300300
Couvercle du guidage de l'élément de manipulation 30Handle element guide cover 30
301301
Tige de l'élément de manipulation 30Handling element rod 30
302302
Goupilles de guidage de l'élément de manipulation 30Handling element guide pins 30
303303
Extrémité biseautée de la tige 302Bevelled end of rod 302
304304
Bille sur ressortSpring ball
3131
Deuxième organe du verrouSecond lock member
310310
Fenêtre de passage pour le deuxième verrouPassage window for the second lock
3232
Trou borgne de logement du ressort de rappelBlind hole for return spring housing
322322
Capothood
3333
Goupilles de positionnement des cornes sur la carrurePins for positioning the horns on the middle
3434
Elément de rappel élastiqueElastic return element
3535
Logement dans la paire de cornes pour la bille 50Housing in pair of horns for ball 50
3636
Logement dans la paire de cornes pour l'extrémité du premier organeHousing in the pair of horns for the end of the first organ
3737
Fentes verticalesVertical slits
3838
Forme complémentaireComplementary form
3939
Axe du deuxième organeAxis of the second organ
5050
Bille sur ressortSpring ball
5151
RessortSpring
5252
Portion du bracelet prise en sandwich entre la paire de cornes et une portion de la carrurePortion of the bracelet sandwiched between the pair of horns and a portion of the middle
5353
Forme complémentaireComplementary form

Claims (19)

  1. A watch case including:
    a middle (1);
    at least one pair of horns (3) intended to retain a wristwatch strap portion (5) and retained on the middle thanks to a lock that can be switched between a position locking the horns and a position releasing the horns;
    the lock including a first member (10) connected to the middle, and a second member (31) complementary to the first member and mounted on the pair of horns;
    characterized by
    a manipulation member (30) mounted on the pair of horns (3) and enabling movement of the second member to switch the lock between the position locking the horns and the position releasing the horns.
  2. Watch case as claimed in claim 1, including an elastic return element (34) mounted on the pair of horns (3) in order to push the manipulation member back into the locking position.
  3. Watch case as claimed in either one of claims 1 or 2, the manipulation member being provided on the pair of horns (3) on the back side.
  4. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the second member (31A) of the lock and the manipulation member (30A) form two parts of a same piece.
  5. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, the watch case including a bottom defining a horizontal plane,
    the direction of movement of the manipulation member (30A) between the locking position and the release position being substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
  6. Watch case as claimed in claim 5, the first member (10) of the lock consisting of a bolt fixedly connected to the middle,
    the second member (31) of the lock consisting of a keeper movable relative to the pair of horns (3).
  7. Watch case as claimed in claim 5, the first member (10) of the lock extending radially on a lateral face (11) of the middle (1),
    the second member (31A) of the lock including a window (310) through which the first member (10) of the lock passes in the locking position,
    the window including a widened portion (312) enabling the insertion and the extraction of the first member (10) of the lock, and a narrow portion (311) preventing the insertion and the extraction of the first member (10) of the lock,
    the first member (10) of the lock passing through the narrow portion (311) of the window (310) when the elastic return member (50) mounted on the pair of horns (3) pushes the second member (31A) of the lock back into the locking position.
  8. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, the elastic return member (35) consisting of two leaf springs (34A) bearing on the second member (31A) of the lock.
  9. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, the watch case including a back defining a horizontal plane,
    the direction of movement of the manipulation member (30B) between the locking position and the release position being substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.
  10. Watch case as claimed in claim 9, the second member (31B, 31C) of the lock being adapted to pivot about an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane between the locking position and the manipulation position.
  11. Watch case as claimed in claim 10, the first member of the lock consisting of a groove (10B, 10C) in a lateral face (11) of the middle (1),
    the second member (31B, 31C) of the lock being engaged in said groove in the locking position, and outside of said groove in the release position.
  12. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11, the manipulation member consisting of a mobile button (30C) that can be actuated by the user and acting on the second member (31C) of the lock in the release position in order to unlock it.
  13. Watch case as claimed in claim 9, the second member (31B, 31C) of the lock being adapted to move radially in translation in the horizontal plane between the locking position and the release position.
  14. Watch case as claimed in claim 13, the first member of the lock consisting of a groove (10D) in a lateral face (11) of the middle (1),
    the second member (31D) of the lock being engaged in said groove in the locking position, and outside of said groove in the release position.
  15. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, the pair of horns (3) and the middle (1) having complementary shapes (38, 13) to guide the pair of horns during its insertion in an axial direction on the middle (1), the lock acting radially to prevent this axial movement in the locking position.
  16. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, a portion (52) of the wristwatch strap (5) being sandwiched between the pair of horns (3) and part of the middle (12).
  17. Watch case as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16, including a spring ball (50) for positioning the wristwatch strap (5) relative to the pair of horns (3).
  18. Watch case as claimed in claim 1, the first member of the lock consisting of a groove (10E) at the periphery of the middle (1E) preventing the extraction of the pair of horns (3E) by an axial movement,
    the second member of the lock consisting of a bolt (31E) that is moved radially in this groove, being guided in this movement by an opening (310) on the internal face of the pair of horns (3E),
    the second member (31E) being pushed back to the bottom of the groove (10E) by two return springs (34E) connected to the pair of horns (3E),
    the manipulation member (30E) consisting of a pushbutton under the internal face of the pair of horns cooperating with the second member to move it radially in the direction of the exterior of the watch, against the action of the return springs (34E), when said pushbutton is actuated.
  19. A method of assembling a wristwatch strap (5) to a watch case (1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, including the following steps:
    insertion of the wristwatch strap (5) in a pair of horns (3);
    insertion of the assembly formed of the wristwatch strap (5) and of the pair of horns (3) on an exterior face (11) of the watch case (1);
    locking of the assembly by manipulating a manipulation member (30) mounted on the pair of horns.
EP17718753.1A 2016-05-10 2017-04-19 Watch case comprising removable horns Active EP3455679B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH00610/16A CH712446A1 (en) 2016-05-10 2016-05-10 Watch case with removable horns and method of assembling a bracelet on such a watch case.
PCT/IB2017/052224 WO2017195054A1 (en) 2016-05-10 2017-04-19 Watch case comprising removable horns

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3455679A1 EP3455679A1 (en) 2019-03-20
EP3455679B1 true EP3455679B1 (en) 2020-02-05

Family

ID=56119252

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17718753.1A Active EP3455679B1 (en) 2016-05-10 2017-04-19 Watch case comprising removable horns

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US11166529B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3455679B1 (en)
JP (1) JP6691232B2 (en)
KR (1) KR20190002684A (en)
CN (1) CN109074028B (en)
CH (1) CH712446A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017195054A1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2019515300A (en) 2019-06-06
KR20190002684A (en) 2019-01-08
CH712446A1 (en) 2017-11-15
US20190174882A1 (en) 2019-06-13
CN109074028B (en) 2020-10-09
EP3455679A1 (en) 2019-03-20
JP6691232B2 (en) 2020-04-28
WO2017195054A1 (en) 2017-11-16
CN109074028A (en) 2018-12-21
US11166529B2 (en) 2021-11-09

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