EP3641584B1 - Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet - Google Patents

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to the field of bracelets, in particular for watches. It concerns a clasp for a bracelet allowing the length of the bracelet to be adjusted. The invention also relates to a length adjustment device and a wristwatch, not claimed, comprising the clasp and/or the length adjustment device.

State of the art and problems at the origin of the invention

A wristwatch clasp generally comprises two fastening members for attaching the free ends of the bracelet, and a locking or closing mechanism for locking the two fastening members, and thus the free ends of the bracelet, in a stable closed position or locking. This position also constitutes the service position, since it allows the wristwatch to be worn on the wrist. There are a multitude of types of clasps, for example the pin buckle or the folding clasps, whose aesthetics are well appreciated.

Clasps and bracelets for wristwatches generally include means for adjusting the length of the bracelet. Typically in the case of leather or plastic bracelets, the free end of one of the two strands of the bracelet comprises a series of holes distributed in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. The free end of the other strand of the bracelet is provided with a connection device, for example a pin buckle, making it possible to join the two strands by inserting the pin into the hole corresponding to the desired length. In the case of bracelets with metal links, the length of the bracelet is adjusted by removing or adding a link in one or in both strands of the bracelet.

Wrist size varies greatly from wearer to wearer. On the other hand, as raised in the documents CH 704 335 and CH 705149 , the size of a wearer's wrist may vary with changes in temperature. The same wearer may therefore wish to regularly finely adjust the length of the bracelet to be perfectly comfortable. The state of the art knows clasps for wristwatches which allow fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet. This is a mechanism arranged to allow modification of the circumference defined by the case of the watch, the bracelet, and the clasp, when the clasp is closed, in order to adapt this circumference to the size of the wrist of an individual wearer. This modification takes place on a smaller scale than that defined by the spacing of the holes in a strand of leather bracelet or by the links of a metal bracelet, for example. Fine adjustment is desirable to precisely adapt the aforementioned circumference to the wrist of each wearer.

In some cases, the fine adjustment device of a clasp for a bracelet comprises a moving part arranged on a part of the clasp and carrying one of the two fixing members, the other fixing member being attached to another part of the clasp . The fine adjustment can be made by moving the moving part relative to the clasp assembly, and locking it in the position corresponding to the desired bracelet length. Often, the fine adjustment device includes a notch or toothing, which defines the discrete length positions of the fine adjustment. The notching can also be part of the device making it possible to block the moving part in a position of desired length.

The document CH 704 335 discloses a folding clasp, in which a fastening member is attached to a carriage arranged to slide in a housing arranged on a blade of the clasp. The clasp comprises a pull tab arranged to cooperate with the carriage and capable of occupying two axial positions so that the carriage is locked and unlocked when the pull tab is respectively in one or the other of the two axial positions. A disadvantage of this mechanism is the fact that at least one of the two opposite pushers of the pull tab is projecting relative to the side walls of the blade of the clasp. The projecting pusher is likely to catch on an external object, for example on a piece of clothing.

As mentioned in the documents CH 704 335 , EP2452583 and CH700230 , it may be desirable that the bracelet length can be adjusted independently of the state - closed or open - of the clasp.

Other objectives relate to the aesthetic aspect of the clasp. For example, an objective of the present invention is to reduce the thickness, that is to say the extension of the clasp in the radial direction with respect to the axis of the wrist of a wearer. The greater the thickness, the more cumbersome the clasp becomes. This problem is accentuated when choosing the positioning of the length adjustment mechanism with respect to the assembly of the clasp, this mechanism generally requiring access from the outside to allow a user to activate the setting. In many cases, the presence of a length adjustment mechanism increases the dimensions of the bracelet.

Another object of the invention is to reduce the weight of the clasp, for example to reduce the quantity of metal used in the manufacture and to make the clasp easier to wear.

In several clasps of the state of the art, for example those described in the documents EP2452583 and CH 698981 , the fine adjustment device is arranged in a yoke or an upper cover, which contributes to the increase in thickness and to the overall size of the clasp. The document EP2740381A1 discloses a folding clasp.

In the context of aesthetics, it would also be desirable to reduce the visibility of the length adjuster. For example, in the document CH704 335 , mentioned above, the movable part is arranged at one end of a blade of the clasp so as to extend beyond the end of the blade when the bracelet is lengthened. In this case, the movable part becomes visible as an extension of the clasp. An object of the invention is to provide a clasp making it possible to adjust the length without this changing the appearance of the clasp from the outside.

Still from the point of view of aesthetics, a clasp whose adjustment mechanism remains discreet and integrates into the general shape of the clasp may be desirable. For example, one objective is to avoid the presence of notches visible from the outside or else of longitudinal openings arranged along a side wall of a clevis of a clasp with a folding clasp.

An object of the present invention is to present a clasp making it possible to activate the length adjustment when the clasp is closed, and this preferably without a dedicated and separate actuating member, such as a pusher, a pull tab or yet a slider is visible from the outside when the clasp is closed.

Summary of the invention

According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a clasp for bracelets of the type comprising first and second free ends, the clasp comprising first and second bracelet attachment members intended to be secured respectively to said first and second free ends of the bracelet.

According to one aspect, the subject of the present invention is a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising at least two blades hinged with respect to each other.

According to a non-claimed embodiment, the subject of the description is a clasp comprising: a first blade and at least one second blade, articulated with respect to one another, the second blade comprising two side rails; a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the strap; a second fixing member intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a locking mechanism arranged to immobilize said first and second blades in the closed position of the clasp when said first and second blades are brought together and folded towards each other; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first and/or second fixing member is attached (preferably said first fixing member), said movable part being arranged so as to be able to moving longitudinally relative to the longitudinal direction of the strap to effect length adjustment; and a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement.

The subject of the present invention is a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising: a first blade and a second blade, articulated with respect to each other, the second blade comprising two side rails, a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the strap; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the strap; a locking mechanism for holding said first and second slats in the closed hard clasp position when said slats are brought together and folded over one another, said locking mechanism comprising a manipulation member intended to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism and to open the clasp; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which a of the two of said first and/or second fastening member is attached (preferably said first fastening member), said movable part being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when adjusting the length, a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement, characterized in that said locking mechanism and said length adjustment device are arranged so that an activation of said manipulation member by a user induces the release of said blocking device and allows the movement of the movable part in said at least one direction of longitudinal movement.

According to a non-claimed embodiment, the subject of the description is a folding buckle clasp comprising: at least a first blade and a second blade, hinged relative to each other, a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first or second fixing members is attached, said movable part being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when of the length adjustment, a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement, the clasp comprising a manipulation member, arranged so that an activation of said manipulation member by a user induces the unlocking of said locking device and allows the movement of the movable part in said at least one direction of longitudinal movement, characterized in that said movable part and/or locking device is arranged on said first blade and said manipulation member is arranged on said second blade.

According to a non-claimed embodiment, the description relates to a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising at least two blades hinged relative to each other, characterized in that that at least one of said blades comprises a part comprising a non-metallic material or the entire blade comprises a non-metallic material.

The invention and preferred embodiments are defined in the appended claims below.

Brief description of the drawings

• La figure 1 est une vue en perspective du dessus d'un fermoir de bracelet selon un mode de réalisation de la présente invention. Le fermoir est montré en position fermée.
• La figure 2 est une vue en perspective du dessous du fermoir de la figure 1 montré en position fermée.
• Les figures 3A et 3B sont des vues latérales en élévation du fermoir selon la figure 1 en position ouverte et fermée, respectivement.
• La figure 4 est une vue en perspective du dessus du fermoir de la figure 1 en position ouverte, les lames du fermoir étant complètement déployées.
• La figure 5 est une vue en perspective-dessous du fermoir de la figure 1 en position ouverte, les lames du fermoir étant complètement déployées.
• Les figures 6A et 6B sont, respectivement, une vue en perspective en contre plongée (A) et une vue en perspective en plongée (B) du fermoir de la figure 1 montré en position ouverte.
• Les figures 7A et 7B sont, respectivement, une vue en perspective (A) et une vue de dessous (B), de la structure centrale du fermoir de la figure 1.
• La figure 8 est une vue en perspective d'une partie d'une lame inférieure du fermoir de la figure 1.
• Les figures 9A, 9B et 9C sont des vues en coupe longitudinale montrant le dispositif de réglage de longueur du fermoir des figures 1 à 8 respectivement en position de repos (9A) et en position activée (9B).
• La figure 10 est une vue en perspective d'une lame du fermoir comportant le dispositif de réglage fin.
• Les figures 11A et 11B sont des vues de dessus (A) et de dessous (B) du fermoir de la figure 1, montrant le dispositif de réglage de longueur en position activée par l'intermédiaire du mécanisme de verrouillage du fermoir. Dans ces figures, quelques éléments du fermoir ont été omis.
• La figure 11C est une vue partielle agrandie de la partie entourée par un cercle dans la figure 11 B, montrée par le cercle dans cette dernière figure.
• La figure 12 est une vue en perspective du fermoir, dans laquelle, pour l'amélioration de la compréhension, quelques éléments structuraux sont transparents et d'autres sont colorés en plus foncé.
• La figure 13 est une vue en perspective d'un fermoir selon un deuxième mode de réalisation
• La figure 14 est une vue en perspective d'une pièce du fermoir montré à la figure 13.
• La figure 15 est une vue en perspective d'un fermoir selon un troisième mode de réalisation.
• La figure 16 est en vue en perspective du fermoir montré à la figure 15, dans lequel quelques éléments ont été omis.
• Les figures 17A-17E sont des divers vues d'un fermoir selon un quatrième mode de réalisation (A: latérale en élévation, B: de dessus, C: de dessous, D: en perspective du dessous, et E: en perspective du dessus d'un fermoir partiellement ouvert).
• La figure 18 est une vue en perspective d'une première lame de fermoir montré aux figures 17A-17E.
• Les figures 19A et 19B sont des vues latérales en élévation et en coupe longitudinale du fermoir montré aux figures 17A-17E. La fig. 19B est une vue en coupe selon la ligne A-A de la fig. 19A. La boucle contenant le second organe de fixation ainsi qu'un des deux longerons latéraux d'une des lames du fermoir a été omis pour la meilleure compréhension.
• La figure 19C est un extrait de la figure 19B, montrant en agrandi le dispositif de blocage du dispositif de réglage de longueur.
• La figure 20 correspond à la figure 19B à la différence que le mécanisme de blocage (ou déblocage) est activé dans la figure 20, de façon que, dans la position montrée, un rallongement de la longueur utile est possible.

The characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the description, given solely by way of non-limiting examples with reference to the figures in which:

• The figure 1 is a top perspective view of a bracelet clasp according to one embodiment of the present invention. The clasp is shown in the closed position.
• The figure 2 is a perspective view of the underside of the clasp of the figure 1 shown in closed position.
• The figures 3A and 3B are side elevational views of the clasp according to the figure 1 in the open and closed position, respectively.
• The figure 4 is a perspective view from above of the clasp of the figure 1 in the open position, the blades of the clasp being fully extended.
• The figure 5 is a perspective view below of the clasp of the figure 1 in the open position, the blades of the clasp being fully extended.
• The figures 6A and 6B are, respectively, a perspective view from below (A) and a perspective view from above (B) of the clasp of the figure 1 shown in open position.
• The figures 7A and 7B are, respectively, a perspective view (A) and a bottom view (B), of the central structure of the clasp of the figure 1 .
• The figure 8 is a perspective view of part of a lower blade of the clasp of the figure 1 .
• The figures 9A, 9B and 9C are views in longitudinal section showing the device for adjusting the length of the clasp of the figures 1 to 8 respectively in the rest position (9A) and in the activated position (9B).
• The figure 10 is a perspective view of a blade of the clasp comprising the fine adjustment device.
• The figures 11A and 11B are top (A) and bottom (B) views of the clasp of the figure 1 , showing the length adjuster in the activated position through the clasp locking mechanism. In these figures, some elements of the clasp have been omitted.
• The figure 11C is an enlarged partial view of the part enclosed by a circle in the Figure 11B , shown by the circle in this last figure.
• The figure 12 is a perspective view of the clasp, in which, for better understanding, some structural elements are transparent and others are colored darker.
• The figure 13 is a perspective view of a clasp according to a second embodiment
• The figure 14 is a perspective view of one piece of the clasp shown in figure 13 .
• The figure 15 is a perspective view of a clasp according to a third embodiment.
• The figure 16 is in perspective view of the clasp shown in figure 15 , in which some elements have been omitted.
• The Figures 17A-17E are various views of a clasp according to a fourth embodiment (A: side elevation, B: from above, C: from below, D: in perspective from below, and E: in perspective from above of a clasp partially open).
• The figure 18 is a perspective view of a first clasp blade shown in Figures 17A-17E .
• The figures 19A and 19B are side elevational and longitudinal sectional views of the clasp shown in Figures 17A-17E . The fig. 19B is a sectional view along line AA of the fig. 19A . The loop containing the second fastener as well as one of the two longerons side of one of the blades of the clasp has been omitted for better understanding.
• The figure 19C is an excerpt from figure 19B , showing an enlarged view of the locking device of the length adjustment device.
• The figure 20 corresponds to the figure 19B except that the blocking (or unblocking) mechanism is activated in the figure 20 , so that, in the position shown, an extension of the useful length is possible.

Description of embodiments

The present invention relates to a clasp, in particular a bracelet clasp. According to a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a clasp for a timepiece bracelet, preferably for a wristwatch. The bracelet can be of any type, such as for example in flexible plastic material, in leather, or comprising an assembly of links, metallic for example.

In general, the bracelet consists of two longitudinal bracelet portions, respectively in the form of first and second strands (not shown), and each of the strands is such that one of its ends is connected to the case of the watch while that the other is intended to be attached to a fastening member of the clasp. As indicated above, in the case of a pin buckle, the end of one of the two strands has a series of holes, and the length is roughly adjusted by choosing the hole in which the barb is inserted.

To describe the invention with reference to the figures, the expressions "direction of the length of the bracelet" or "longitudinal direction of the bracelet" are used to designate an axis which is that of the two bracelet strands, assuming that the bracelet is laid out flat and detached from a watch. When the bracelet is closed, the "bracelet length direction" refers to the line that follows the circumference of the bracelet. The bracelet length adjusted by fine adjustment using the clasp adjustment device according to the invention is in the direction of the bracelet length. In the case of a conventional dial wristwatch, an axis connecting the numerals 6 and 12 on the dial generally follows the direction of the strap length in accordance with this definition.

If the locking mechanism of the length adjustment device is ignored, the clasp shown in the figures is substantially symmetrical and therefore comprises a plane which would constitute a plane of symmetry if the clasp is perfectly symmetrical. In this description, this plane which extends in the direction of the length of the bracelet and the clasp is considered as "plane of symmetry", even if the symmetry of the clasp is not perfect, for example due to the positioning of the device length adjustment and its locking mechanism.

The term "orthogonal" refers to an axis which is perpendicular to the "bracelet length direction" and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp. In the case of a wristwatch with a dial, an axis connecting the numerals 3 and 9 of the dial has an "orthogonal" direction in accordance with this definition.

A "radial" axis is an axis that is radial to the axis of the wrist or forearm of a wristwatch wearer. The radial axis extends in the plane of symmetry or in a plane parallel to the plane of symmetry. In the view of the Figure 3B , the "radial" axis is a substantially "vertical" axis, and the two terms are used interchangeably herein.

The terms "bottom" and "top" generally refer respectively to the bottom and top of the clasp as shown in Figure 3B . The expressions "below" and "above" are to be understood analogously, the structural elements close to the wrist being below the more distant elements.

If the expressions "longitudinal direction of the bracelet", "orthogonal" and "radial" refer to the orientation of an element of the clasp or of an axis of this element, these expressions generally relate to the orientation of the element or of its axis when the clasp is closed.

According to one embodiment, the clasp of the invention is a clasp of the folding type, a folding clasp or a folding clasp. This type of clasp is known, for example, from patent documents EP 0913106 , CH700230 , EP2452583 , EP2361523 and CH704335 . The clasp has at least two longitudinal clasp segments. In the present description, these longitudinal segments are also called "the blades" of the clasp. Generally, a clasp comprises two or three longitudinal segments. Clasps shown in the figures are clasps with two blades 1, 2. Of course, it would be entirely possible to produce the clasp of the invention with a folding clasp with three blades or even with a clasp of the pin buckle type only. The present invention also contemplates clasps which combine the characteristics of a folding clasp with a strap strand attachment known from the pin buckle. A clasp of the pin buckle type in the absence of a folding clasp corresponds to one embodiment of the invention.

Indeed, those skilled in the art will understand that the device for fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet according to the invention can be adapted to any type of clasp and is not limited to a particular type of clasp.

The clasp shown in the figures 1-12 comprises a first blade 1 and a second blade 2, hinged relative to each other at a first end. When the clasp is closed, the blades 1, 2 are brought together and folded over one another as shown in figures 1, 2, 3B , 11A, 11B .

The blades 1, 2 are elongated in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better match the shape of the wrist of a wearer. The first blade 1 comprises a lower surface 44 ( picture 2 ), intended to be in front of the wrist of the wearer, and an upper surface 21 ( figure 4 ).

The clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism 3 making it possible to lock the clasp in the closed position, and to unlock the clasp in order to pass into the open position ( figure 3A , 4 , 5 , 6A, 6B ) to remove the watch from the wrist. Locking means for folding clasps are known per se.

In a variant, the locking mechanism is based on the presence of a snap mechanism, for example formed by extra thicknesses and possibly by recesses, respectively, on the first and second blade. In this case, a user acts directly on a slat in order to exert the force necessary to separate the slats or to lock them by interlocking them, for example. The disadvantage of this mechanism is that wear can make the ratcheting less effective. On the other hand, there is always the risk of accidental opening with this type of closure.

In a preferred embodiment, the clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism comprising a manipulation member arranged in such a way that an activation of this member is necessary to open the clasp. The advantage of this type of mechanism is that accidental opening is excluded. The mechanical principle of the locking mechanism 3 of the clasp shown in the figures is similar to that disclosed in the European patent EP0913106B .

The locking mechanism 3 preferably comprises two lateral manipulation members, a first manipulation member 7 and a second manipulation member 7'. To unlock the clasp, a wearer simultaneously activates the two members 7, 7'. These manipulation members 7, 7' protrude from each side of the frame 20, in which they are guided and/or housed. This frame is preferably arranged at the second end of the first blade 1. Instead of a frame, it is possible to provide a yoke, a loop as shown in figure 14 , or a lid, as shown in the patent EP0913106B to engage the pushers. It should be noted that the second fixing member, not shown, is preferably attached to the frame 20. It may be a spring bar held, for example, between two side walls of the frame or of the yoke. In the figure 1 and 6B , a hole 45 is visible on the inner face of a side wall of the frame 20, allowing the spring bar to be housed together with a corresponding hole arranged on the opposite wall (not visible). On its upper face, the frame 20 of the clasp shown in the figures comprises a recess 46, provided to insert the manufacturer's logo, for example.

Due to the general symmetry of the clasp of the invention, several elements are arranged in pairs in the clasp, on either side of the plane of symmetry. This description generally uses a single reference number to designate elements present in pairs, unless separate reference numbers are appropriate, for example because of asymmetries of the locking device or for the more detailed description of certain characteristics.

Each of the manipulation members 7, 7' is connected to one of the two side beams, 14, 14' of the second blade 2. In the embodiment shown, the connection (not visible) between the beams and their respective manipulation members is located at the second end of the second blade, in the frame 20. Indeed, each of the two manipulation members 7, 7′ can be made in one piece with one of the two side rails. Towards the second end of the first blade 1, the side rails 14, 14' are not rigidly connected to each other, but are engaged in the frame 20 so as to be able to move slightly in the general plane of the clasp, in an orthogonal direction. This freedom of movement can come from the flexibility of the beams, or at least from the second end thereof. In the clasp shown in the drawings, the two spars 14, 14' are two separate pieces, joined together with the articulation of the second blade, towards the first end. In another embodiment, illustrated in the document EP0383039 , the two spars 14, 14' are rigidly connected to a common base, generally close to the first end, but they have free ends, which can move relative to each other due to the flexibility of the spars . The frame 20 further comprises return means, for example a spring, which urge the manipulation members 7, 7' as well as the side rails 14, 14' towards the locking position, generally the outer lateral positions of the rails. The return means are not visible in the drawings, because they are integrated into the frame 20. The return means are thus arranged so as to hold the members 7, 7' in a position remote from each other. .

In the embodiment shown, the manipulation members 7, 7' are made in the form of pushers 7, 7'. By holding the pushers 7, 7' between the thumb and the index finger and by pressing, a wearer brings the pushers and the side rails 14, 14' closer together.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least two attachment members or complementary attachment members 22, 23, a first stop shape 22 arranged on the first blade 1 and a second stop shape 23 disposed on the second blade 2, said stop forms 22, 23 being arranged to lock the clasp in the closed position when the stop forms 22, 23 are engaged. The activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' causes the disengagement of said complementary stop shapes 22, 23 in order to unlock the locking mechanism 3. Preferably, the first stop shape 23 is arranged on the side member 14 , and the latter is arranged to act on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed and when the manipulation member 7 is activated by a user, as will be described below.

Each spar 14, 14' has, on its outer side, a protruding member in the form of a hook 23 ( figure 4 , 6A ). A recess or corresponding stopping surface 22 ( figures 4, 5 ) is formed in the inner side of each spar 15, 15 'of the first blade 1, for receive the hook 23 when the second blade 2 is completely folded over the first blade 1. The hooks 23 have rounded shapes below and flattened retention surfaces extending in a plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp. The surfaces of the recesses 22 in contact with the retention surfaces of the hooks 23 are also flattened and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp. Thanks to the rounded lower side, the hooks 23 ensure automatic locking with positive engagement, when the second blade 2 is pressed towards the first blade 1, even if the pushers 7, 7' are not depressed. Accidental opening of the clasp is prevented thanks to the complementary flattened surfaces, as long as the longerons 14, 14' of the second blade 2 have not been brought closer by activating the pushers 7, 7'.

One of the differences of the clasp shown compared to the clasp of EP0913106B relates to the fact that the longerons 14, 14' of the second strip 2 are not inserted between the sides of the longerons 15, 15' of the first strip 1. In the clasp of the present example, the longerons 14, 14' are placed at the least partially above the longitudinal members 15, 15' of the first blade when the clasp is closed. Each of the hooks 23 is arranged laterally on a bulge 24 located on the underside of the spar 14, so that the hook is at a lowered level relative to the general plane of the spar 14 ( Figure 6A ). On the other hand, the first blade 1 comprises, at its second end, an extension forming a frame 18 provided to accommodate and/or guide the end of a bracelet strand. This frame comprises two lateral extensions 28 connected towards their ends by a transverse plate 29 ( figure 4 and 8 ). The side extensions 28 comprise a structure 31 in elevation with respect to the upper surface of the first blade. The surfaces of the recess 22 are arranged on the inner face of the structure 31 in elevation, so as to be arranged above the general plane of the first blade. In fact, the support surfaces of the hooks 23 are in the same plane as the lower surfaces of the beams 14, 14'. The bearing surfaces in the recesses 23 are in the same plane as the upper surfaces 21 of the first blade 1. It will emerge from the rest of the description that these characteristics contribute to the implementation of a particularly light and little clasp. bulky.

The present invention also covers a variant of the locking mechanism 4, according to which the side rails 14, 14' are arranged so as to move away or to move apart when the manipulation member 7, 7' is activated. , to unlock the locking mechanism.

According to yet another variant, one or both manipulation members 7, 7' are arranged in such a way as to be pulled, instead of being pushed in, in order to allow movement of the beams 14, 14' and thus the unlocking of the locking mechanism . The manipulation member(s) is/are then preferably made in the form of a pull tab rather than a pair of pushers. In this case, it can also be a separation movement or an approximation of the beams 14, 14 'causing the unlocking. In all cases, the presence of return means, such as a spring, is preferred, in order to bias the clasp into the locked position in the absence of activation of the manipulation member 7, 7'.

In one embodiment, it is envisaged that the parts containing the beams 14, 14' as well as the manipulation members 7, 7', intersect inside the frame 20, so that each beam is connected to the manipulator on the opposite lateral side ( figure 13 ). In this case, the spar 14 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 7', and the spar 14' to the member 7. In this embodiment, the manipulation member and the corresponding spar are preferably made of also a room. According to this variant, the manipulation members 7, 7' can be made in the form of pushers, and the activation of these manipulation members can cause the beams 14, 14' to move apart.

The clasp of the invention comprises a device for adjusting the length 4 of the bracelet. It is preferably a device allowing fine adjustment of the length. By "length adjustment" or "fine length adjustment" is meant a device making it possible to adjust the circumference defined by the case of a watch, the two bracelet strands and the clasp. The aim is to allow a wearer to adjust this circumference so that the wearer is most comfortable when wearing the wristwatch comprising the clasp on his wrist. The fine adjustment of the length results in a tightening or a loosening of the bracelet on the wrist, depending on whether the length is shortened or lengthened. This latter adjustment can be made on a smaller and more precise scale than adjustment by adding or removing a link from a metal bracelet or by inserting the barb or lug into another. hole in the case of a pin buckle, for example. In the state of the art, the expression “adjusting the useful length of the bracelet” is also used.

In the clasp shown in the figures, the adjustment device 4 is integrated into a central support structure 6 of the clasp. The central support structure 6 is integral with the first blade 1, but could also be formed in one piece with the first blade 1. In a embodiment, the support structure 6 constitutes the first blade 1.

The adjustment device 4 comprises a moving part or part 5 to which the first fixing member 11 is attached. This member is intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet. In the embodiment shown, the first fixing member comprises two tenons 11, intended to be inserted into the holes provided in the free end of a bracelet strand. A person skilled in the art knows many connecting members, including strips, and the present invention is not limited to any particular connecting member. As can be seen at figures 4, 5 , 6A , 9A, 9B , and 10 , the movable part 5 is made in the form of a slide, housed in a channel 32 made in the central structure 6. The inner side walls of the channel 32 are formed in such a way as to retain and guide the slide so that it can move in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, each of the side walls of the channel 32 comprises a groove, arranged to receive the side flanges present on the slide 5, so as to allow sliding in the longitudinal direction of the movable part 5.

The movable part 5 is housed in a free end 8 of the central structure 6 to emerge from the end 8. The movable part 5 is arranged on the support structure 6 so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the strap to adjust the length. During a lengthening, the movement in the longitudinal direction causes the movable part 5 to emerge more from the end 8 of the central support structure 6, and during a shortening, the movable part 5 moves in the opposite direction longitudinal direction, so as to fit further into the support 6.

The clasp includes a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part 5 in at least one direction of longitudinal movement. This blocking device is illustrated in figures 9A, 9B and 9C . In one embodiment, the locking device comprises a notch or a toothing 33, preferably a ratchet toothing, arranged on the movable part 5, a jaw or an antagonist tooth 34 connected to an actuating member 9, and a means of reminder 37, arranged to urge the blocking device into the blocked position, so as to prevent movement of the movable part 5 in at least one direction along the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.

In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is a pusher, connected to the jaw 34. The movable part 5 comprises a detent 33, and the jaw 34 is arranged to cooperate with this detent 33 and to block the movement of the movable part 5 in the absence of an actuation of the actuating member 9.

In one embodiment, the blocking device further comprises a rod or bar 12 ( figure 9C and 12 ) connecting the jaw or tooth 34 to said actuating member 9. This rod is preferably housed in a housing 36 made in the central support 6, and this housing 36 is arranged so as to position the rod above or below of the mobile part 5 in the central support structure 6.

The actuating member 9 is preferably connected by the rod or bar 12 to the jaw 34 so as to form a pawl. The notch 33 is arranged on a side face of the slide 5, so as to cooperate with the jaw 34. The actuating member 9, the bar and the jaw 34 are preferably formed from a single piece 19, housed in housing 36 ( figures 7A and 7B ) provided in the central structure 6. The return means, in particular springs 37 act on the pusher in order to urge the jaw 34 in the direction of the notching, thereby blocking the movement of the slide 5 in the absence of a activation by a user.

In one embodiment, said length adjustment device 4 comprises a rack, a toothing and/or a toothing 33. Preferably, the rack, toothing and/or the toothing 33 is arranged on the mobile part. Preferably, the notch 33 defines at least three indexing positions, preferably in order to determine at least three discrete and stable values of the length of the bracelet. The advantage of notching is that it makes it possible to define more indexing positions and thus to adjust the length of the bracelet more finely. For example, the notch defines 4, 5, 6, 7 or more indexing positions.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the shapes of the notching and the jaw are such that movement in a first of the two longitudinal directions is completely blocked by the blocking device in the rest position, while movement in the other direction can be made when a force acts on the slide in this other direction. This is accomplished by the asymmetrical ("anti-recoil") shape of the cogging and jaw teeth. In practice, this configuration allows a user to shorten the bracelet by exerting a force on the strand attached to the mobile part 5, by pushing the strand in the direction of the clasp. This force is transmitted to the jaw which, in this case, is forced to disengage from the space between two teeth in which it is located. The accidental extension or by a force acting on the bracelet of the clasp is prevented by the orthogonal surfaces on one of the two sides of the teeth and the jaw. To lengthen the clasp, it is necessary to activate the blocking device by pressing on the pusher 9, which makes it possible to completely disengage the jaw 34 from the teeth of the notching. In the latter case, the slide 5 can be moved in both longitudinal directions along the length of the bracelet, allowing it to be shortened and lengthened. As can be deduced from the figure 9C , the slide 5 is retained in its housing 32 in the structure 6 by a screw 25, which is arranged to abut against the bar 25 when a maximum extension of the length of the bracelet has been reached. The abutment in the other direction is simply determined by the end of the housing 32 inside the structure 6. The figure 9C shows the slide 5 in its most withdrawn position in the structure 6, abutting against the inner end of the housing.

In another embodiment, shown in figures 13 and 14 , the actuating member 9 comprises or is connected to a pull tab, that is to say a member intended to be pulled to activate the blocking device. From what has been described above, it follows that the unlocking of the locking mechanism of the clasp shown in the figures is effected by a movement in the orthogonal direction of the part 19 comprising the pusher 9, the bar 12 and the jaw 34. This same movement can, in principle, be performed by pulling on part 19, as described later below with respect to a second embodiment shown in figures 13 and 14 .

As shown at figures 9A and 9B , the return means 37 are made in the form of two springs 37, housed on the one hand in a pair of hollows present in the pusher 9 and on the other hand in a pair of hollows made in the housing 36 of the part 9, 34, 12. These latter hollows are made on either side of a channel in which the bar 12 is guided. In the case of an actuating member comprising a pull tab 141 ( figure 13 ), it is possible to keep a support for the springs like that of the pusher 9, due to the limited space available to house the springs.

One of the particularities of the clasp shown in the figures resides in the integration of the locking device, including its actuating member 9, in a relatively centered position, along the central axis of the direction of the length of the bracelet. On the other hand, the blocking device is centered in the radial/vertical direction, between the first and second blades 1, 2. It will be noted that the upper surface of the central structure 6 is raised with respect to to the upper surface 21 of the beams 15, 15'. When the clasp is closed ( figures 1, 2, 3B ), the upper part of the central structure 6 is located between the beams 14, 14'.

Preferably, the central support structure 6 is centered with respect to the direction of the bracelet length so that, when the clasp is closed, the longerons 14, 14' of the second blade 2 are located on either side of the central support structure 6. In one embodiment, said side rails 14, 14' of the second slat 2 are arranged laterally with respect to the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed, preferably so as to frame at least partially the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed. This outer lateral arrangement of the beams 14, 14' represents a major difference with respect to clasps of the type EP0913106 , in which the flexible beams of the locking mechanism are centered and integrated between uprights of a first blade, the latter forming the frame.

In the case of the clasp of the invention, the longitudinal members 14, 14' of the locking mechanism 3 comprising the flexible ends connected to a manipulation member 7, 7' are preferably arranged externally with respect to a central structure or blade 6, carrying the fine length adjustment blocking device.

In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is arranged at least partially in a space 16 made between the two side rails 14, 14' of the second blade when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the adjustment device 4 is arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, at least a part of the adjustment device 4 extends, in the vertical direction, into a space 16 arranged by the second blade 2 ( Figure 6A ).

In the embodiment shown in the figures, this space 16 is provided between the two side rails 14, 14' of the second strip 2.

In one embodiment, the length adjustment device 4 is integrated and/or mounted in the central structure 6 so that the actuating member 9 emerges vertically at least partially into the space 16 formed in the second blade 2.

In one embodiment, the clasp comprises a frame or a clevis 20 arranged at a second end of the second blade 2. Preferably, the frame or the clevis 20 supports the second fixing member, and comprises, on its lower side, a space and/or a recess 17 to allow the mobile part 5 to move in the space 17. In one embodiment, when the clasp is closed, the second blade 2 extends beyond the free end 8 of the central support structure 6 so that the frame or the yoke 20 is located in front of the free end 8. In this way, the frame 20 does not obstruct the central support structure 6, but is positioned in front the free end of the central structure 6. On the underside of the frame, the space 17 is provided, for example created by a recess, allowing the movable part 5 to emerge from the end of the central structure 6. The frame and/or the yoke 20 preferably supports at least one manipulation member 7, 7'.

In one embodiment, the first strip 1 comprises upper side surfaces 21 arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, said side surfaces 21 and said longerons 14, 14' are at least partially superimposed.

The integration of the length adjustment device 4 and in particular of the locking device in the central structure 6 makes it possible to reduce the size of the clasp in the radial direction, that is to say, the thickness of the clasp.

In one embodiment, the length adjustment device 4 comprises an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the locking mechanism to be released, the actuating member 9 being separate, distinct and/or different from the activation 7, 7'.

In one embodiment, the first fixing member 11 is arranged on an underside of the mobile part 5, so as to face the wrist of a user wearing a wristwatch comprising the clasp. It will be noted that the tenons 11 of the fastening member for the bracelet strand are oriented downwards, that is to say that they point from the slide 5 in the direction of the user's wrist. This also saves space and makes the clasp more compact. When the clasp is closed, the two fasteners 11, 12 are located one above the other in the radial/vertical direction ( Figure 3B ). In one embodiment, the first fixing member 11 is arranged so that the free end of the bracelet (not shown) is attached below a lower general surface 44 of the first blade ( figure 2 ).

In one embodiment, the mobile part 5 is arranged at least partially below the second blade 2.

As can be seen at the Figure 3B , the frame or the yoke 20 is arranged above the first fixing member 11 when the clasp is closed. Similarly, the second fixing member, which is supported by the frame or the yoke 20 is arranged above the first fixing member 11 when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the activation of at least one manipulation member 7 of the locking mechanism 3 causes the displacement of a part 19 of the locking device and causes the unlocking of the adjustment device 4 and/or of the locking device. blockage. Preferably, the activation of a manipulation member 7 causes the movement of a spar 14 which, during this movement, acts on a part 19 of the fine adjustment mechanism and causes the release of the latter, thus making it possible to adjust the length.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 and the length adjustment device 4 are arranged so that the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' by a user induces the unlocking of the locking device 25 only when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is directly accessible or activatable by a user only when the clasp is open and/or when said first and second blades 1, 2 are unfolded. In the embodiment shown, the actuating member 9 is not directly accessible from outside the clasp when the clasp is closed. In order to be able to press the pusher 9 directly, the user opens the clasp, in order to be able to press the pusher. This is the result of the central integration of the adjustment device. Nevertheless, the clasp is designed in such a way that the length adjustment (in both directions along the longitudinal direction) can also be carried out when the clasp is closed. According to one embodiment, the adjustment device 4 and in particular the actuating member 9 can be activated indirectly, preferably when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least one manipulation member 7 arranged to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism. lock 3 in order to allow the opening of the clasp 10. Preferably, the locking mechanism 3 is arranged in such a way that the activation of at least one of the two manipulation members 7, 7' generates the unlocking of the locking device 19 , 33, 34, 37.

In one embodiment, said movable part 5 and/or said blocking device 33, 34, 37 is arranged on first blade 1 and said manipulation member 7 is arranged on said second blade 2.

As can be seen in the figures 1, 2 , 4 and 5 , for example, the pusher 9 protrudes with respect to a lateral surface of the central support structure 6. The pusher 9 thus faces the spar 14, more precisely an inner lateral surface of the spar 14, when the clasp is closed. As mentioned below, this spar 14 moves in a direction orthogonal to the bracelet length direction when the locking mechanism 3 is activated. The Figures 11A, 11B , and 11C , show that, when a user presses the push-buttons 7, 7' of the locking mechanism 3, the movement of the beam 14 causes pressure on the manipulation member 9, causing the unlocking of the adjustment device. In these figures, the spar 14', which does not cooperate with the length adjustment device when the clasp is closed, has been omitted. The arrow shown in black in the figure 11A and 11C indicates the contact between the spar 14 and the pusher 9 during the activation of the member 7.

In one embodiment, said beams 14, 14' are arranged with respect to said manipulation member 7, 7' so as to move when the manipulation member 7, 7' is activated by a user. Preferably, the movement of at least one of the beams 14 causes unlocking of the locking mechanism 3.

In one embodiment, the spar 14 is caused to move in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when the manipulation member 7 is activated. During this displacement of the spar 14 in the orthogonal direction, the spar 14 acts on the actuating member 9 of the length adjustment device 4, in order to unlock the locking mechanism 2.

In one embodiment, the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' by a user makes it possible both to unlock the locking mechanism 3 and to unlock the device blockage.

It should be noted that the pressure exerted on the pushers 7, 7' causes the unlocking of the locking mechanism 3, but not necessarily the opening of the clasp. To open the clasp, it is in fact necessary not only to unlock the locking mechanism 3, but also to actively lift the second blade 2 in order to deploy the blades of the clasp. When a user presses the pushers 7, 7' without deploying the blades, the clasp remains closed and a length adjustment can be made. When the length adjustment is completed, the user can release the pressure on the push-button(s) 7, 7' and the locking mechanism 3 again goes into the locked position (rest position), without the clasp having been open.

In the embodiment shown, only the spar 14 and not the opposite spar 14' is arranged to be able to act on the actuating member 9, due to the asymmetry of the length adjustment device. Consequently, according to a preferred embodiment, it suffices to activate one of the two manipulation members. A user can hold the clasp between the thumb and index finger so as to press only on the pusher 7, for example, and in this way unlock the locking device without completely unlocking the locking mechanism 4.

In one embodiment, the manipulation member 7 is arranged to be able to act either directly or via a mechanism or an intermediate structure 14 on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed. In the embodiment shown, this mechanism or this intermediate structure corresponds to the spar 14 of the second blade 2. In the embodiment shown in the figures, each spar is integral with one of the two manipulation members, for example formed in a part with one of the two manipulation devices. In one embodiment, one of the side rails 14 is not formed in a single piece with the manipulation member 7, 7', but both are made in two or more pieces, which may or may not be integral with each other. one from the other. The two parts can be in direct contact or can cooperate via a mechanism and/or by one or more separate parts. In all these cases, it is preferred that the activation of the manipulation members 7, 7' results in the displacement of the beams, preferably in an orthogonal direction.

From the above, it becomes clear that the clasp of the invention allows length adjustment when the clasp is open and also when the clasp is closed. Preferably, the blocking device can be activated whether the clasp is open or closed. When the clasp is open, the user can press directly on the actuating member 9. When the clasp is closed, the length adjustment device is activated via the first manipulation member 7.

The first blade 1 is shown separately at figure 10 . In the embodiment shown, the slat 1 comprises two parts, for example two semi-slats or two partial slats, a frame slat 30, shown in figure 8 , and the central blade 35, shown in figures 7A and 7B .

In one embodiment, the first blade 1 comprises two separate parts 30, 35, made integral with each other, a first part 35 comprising the central support structure 6 and a second part 30 comprising two side beams 15, 15', between which the central support structure 6 is framed and/or attached.

According to a preferred embodiment, when assembling the two partial blades 30, 35, this assembly becomes unremovable. The two partial blades are thus rigidly connected so as to behave as a single piece.

The frame blade 30 ( figure 8 ) comprises the two lateral longitudinal beams 15, 15', essentially parallel, a transverse upright 43 rigidly connecting the longitudinal beams, and, at the second end, a frame 18 comprising two lateral extensions 28 of the longitudinal beams 15, 15' and a transverse plate 29. The frame 18 forms an opening in the first blade 1, making it possible to thread and frame the end of the bracelet strand which will be attached to the first fastening member 11. When the clasp is connected to bracelet strands, the bracelet strand bracelet connected to the first fastening member 11 will pass over the transverse plate 29 and will be below the blades of the clasp, in contact with the user's wrist.

As shown at figure 8 , recesses or housings 38 are arranged in the inner faces of the side members 15, 15', intended to accommodate protrusions 39 arranged on the central blade 35, in order to form a retaining or attachment structure to allow the two blades to be connected partial 30 and 35. Instead of protrusions and recesses, all another connection or interaction structure can be provided to allow attachment between the two partial blades.

The central blade 35 ( figures 7A and 7B ) comprises the central support structure 6, carrying the length adjustment device 4. The recesses forming the channel 32 and the housing 36 are created in the central blade 35. The latter further comprises two lateral fins 41, intended to be in contact with the longitudinal members 15, 15' when the two partial blades 30, 35 are assembled, and forming a common upper surface 21. A transverse recess 42 is made in the underside of the central strip 35 ( figure 7B ), to clear a space in which the transverse upright 43 of the frame slat 30 comes to rest when the two partial slats are assembled ( Figure 6A ). Towards its first end, the central blade 35 also has a transverse hole to allow articulation with respect to the second blade and to contribute to the assembly between the partial blades 30, 35.

In general, the parts of the clasp of the invention can be manufactured, independently, from any suitable material. Typically, clasps and/or their parts are made of metal. For example, the blades and the functional parts are typically made of metal, for example steel, stainless steel, titanium, gold, silver, or any other metal or metal alloy. In one embodiment of the invention, the first blade 1, the first part or the partial blade 35, and/or the part carrying the length adjustment device 4 can comprise a non-metallic material. For example, the first blade or the first part 1 of the first blade is made of a material comprising a non-metallic material.

In one embodiment, the material comprising a non-metallic material is chosen from the following: a material other than metal, a composite material, a plastic material (polymer) and/or carbon fiber. Preferably, the blade or part in question is made of a material comprising carbon fiber and, optionally, plastic material.

In one embodiment, the first blade 1, the first part 35, the first partial blade 35, and/or the blade carrying the length adjustment device is manufactured by injection and/or by injection molding. This applies to a part made of a material comprising a non-metallic material.

The fact of manufacturing a blade or a part of the latter by molding brings several advantages. On the one hand, when the part comprises a material other than metallic materials, the weight of the part, compared to a metal part, is reduced. On the other hand, the manufacturing costs are significantly lower. In one embodiment, the whole of the first blade 1 is made of the same material other than metal, for example one of the aforementioned materials, preferably a plastic material comprising carbon fiber.

In one embodiment, the clasp of the invention comprises a length adjustment device 4 housed in the part 35 or the blade 1 comprising the non-metallic material.

In one embodiment, part 35 or blade 1 comprising (or made of) non-metallic material comprises one or more recesses 32, 36 intended to house one or more parts 5, 9, 34 which form part of the length adjustment 4. Said parts 5, 9, 34 which form part of the length adjustment device 4 are chosen from among the movable part 5, a part 9, 12, 34 comprising a jaw or a tooth 34, intended to cooperate with the mobile 5, and an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the unlocking of the mobile part 5. In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the parts 5, 9, 12, 34 of the length adjustment device 4 are made of metal.

In one embodiment, the clasp has parts made of a material comprising a non-metallic material and other parts made of metal. For example, the first slat may comprise a first partial slat 35 made of a material comprising a non-metallic material, and a second partial slat or frame slat 30 made of metal. In one embodiment, a complete blade 1 is made of a material comprising non-metallic components, and another blade 2 is made of metal. A blade or partial-blade made of a material comprising a non-metallic material can house and/or cooperate with metal parts. On the other hand, the invention also covers the possibility that two, several or all of the blades of the clasp are made of a material comprising a non-metallic material, and the parts housed in these blades can be metallic or comprise non-metallic materials. , for example.

A material comprising non-metallic material may be made entirely of non-metallic material, such as plastic and/or carbon fiber, or may comprise a mixture of one or more metals and one or more non-metallic materials .

The figure 13 shows a clasp 100 according to a second embodiment. The clasp 100 comprises a first blade 101 comprising a central structure 106, the first blade being hinged to a second blade 102 comprising two side rails 114, 114' at a first end of the blades. The mobile part, which emerges at the free end of the structure 106, is not visible, but the manipulation member 109 is arranged projecting in a lateral side of the structure 106 (shown on the left side of the structure 106 at the figure 13 ). The two longerons 114, 114' are arranged laterally with respect to the central structure 106 of the first blade 101.

A peculiarity of the clasp of the figure 13 is that the spars 114, 114' are connected to pushers 107, 107', respectively, arranged at opposite lateral sides with respect to the lateral side of the respective spar. The spar 114 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 107, and the spar 114' to the member 107'. The two parts or entities comprising the beams 114, 114' and the members 107, 107' intersect, preferably at the second end of the beams.

In this embodiment, the manipulation members 107, 107' and/or the structure connecting these members to the respective beams are preferably partially superimposed and/or overlap at one place, preferably towards said second end.

A spar and the member to which it is connected can form an element reminiscent of the letter L. This element can be formed in a single piece or in several pieces made integral with one another. Due to the crossing of these elements, pressure exerted by a wearer by pushing the members 107, 107' generates a separation of the beams 114, 114'. This spacing effects the unlocking of the locking mechanism. In the case of the clasp shown in figure 13 , the attachment members or complementary stop forms 22, 23 are arranged on the central structure 106 on the one hand and the longerons 114, 114', on the other hand. These attachment devices are not visible figure 13 , but their operation is exactly the same in that the displacement of the beams 114, 114' generates a separation of the complementary attachment members, which allows a separation of the first and second blades 101, 102 by pivoting, and thus the opening of the clasp.

The fact of arranging the complementary attachment members 22, 23 on the outer sides of the central structure 106 and on the inner sides of each of the longerons 114, 114' can be advantageous. The extensions 28 or even the structures in elevation 31 of the embodiment shown in figure 1-11 are no longer necessary to arrange the complementary members on the side of the first blade 1. Indeed, in the clasp shown in figure 13 , it is possible to omit the partial blade 30 and/or its structural elements described above ( figure 8 ). For example, a first blade comprising or consisting essentially of the central support structure 106 could be sufficient.

Due to the separation of the beams during the depression of the members 107, 107 ', the activation of the locking mechanism does not generate pressure on the actuating member 109. As can be seen in figure 14 , the part 119 comprising the pusher 109, the transverse bar 112, the jaw or the opposing tooth 134 also comprises an extension 140, extending the bar 112 in the orthogonal direction. The extension 140 emerges from the lateral flank opposite that of the pusher 109 on the central structure 106. A pin 141, arranged on the extension 140 functions as a pull tab or hooking member, making it possible to exert a pulling force on the part 119. For this purpose, a hole 142 is made in the spar 114', arranged to receive the pin 141 when the second blade 102 is folded on the first blade 101. When the clasp is in the closed position, the spar 114' is connected to the pull tab 141 so that the actuation of the member 107' pulls on the pull tab, allowing the release of the release device upon activation of the actuating member. Of course, it is always preferred that the return means are arranged to hold the blocking device in the blocked position. These return means can be arranged between the pusher 109 and the structure 106, as shown in figures 9A and 9B .

From the foregoing it follows that a second actuating member 141 may be present instead of the pusher 109 or may exist in addition to the pusher 109. The presence of an actuating member in the form of a pull tab 141 is particularly preferred when the locking mechanism described above is based on a separation instead of the bringing together of the spars of the second blade 102. In this case, the invention envisages means of connection, for example a pair of hooks or a connection by a pin and a hole, arranged in such a way that when at least one of the two beams 114, 114' is moved apart, a pull is performed on the part 119, allowing the unlocking of the locking device release upon activation of the actuator. It should also be specified that the element 119 can be produced in several separate parts, preferably made integral.

In one embodiment, the blocking device comprises both a pusher 109 and a pull tab 141. Preferably, the activation of each of the two allows the blocking device to be unlocked. The pusher can preferably be actuated by a wearer having opened the clasp, for example by pressure with a finger on the pusher, whereas the pull tab is preferably activated indirectly, by the displacement of at least one spar during activation of the locking mechanism.

The concept described on the example of figures 13 and 14 can be adapted to all other clasps described in this description, which is specifically covered by the present invention.

The figures 15 and 16 show a clasp 200 according to a third embodiment. A first blade 201 is hinged to a second blade 202 at a first end of the blades. The first blade 201 comprises a central support structure 206. In the free end of this structure (the second end of the first blade), a movable part 205 is housed, arranged so as to emerge from the end of the structure 106 The structure 206 contains recesses or recesses similar to those described above, making it possible to accommodate the movable part 205 and the part 219 comprising the actuating member 209. A first fixing member 211, produced for example in the form of a 'a crossbar, is connected to the moving part 205. The second blade 202 comprises two side rails 214, 214', articulated at the first end and stabilized towards the second end by a transverse tube not shown. A difference of the clasp 200 compared to the previous clasps is that the actuating member 209 emerges on the right side of the central structure 206, as shown in figure 14 and 15 . In previous clasps, the locking device had an opposite orientation.

The beams 214, 214' are arranged laterally with respect to the structure 206 when the clasp is closed. Each spar is connected to a respective manipulation member, 207, 207' by a rod 247 with an orthogonal orientation having a diameter reduced in relation to the diameter of the members 207, 207. The clasp 200 comprises a loop 220 in the shape of a U, whose two free ends have holes in which the rods 247 are threaded. The loop 220 can pivot around the axis defined by the rods 247, while stabilizing the ends of the spars 214, 214'. A second fastener, not shown, is connected to buckle 220.

As in the clasp shown in figures 1-12 , the activation of the manipulation members 207, 207', by pressure causes the beams 214, 214' to come together. One of the two spars, the spar 214' is arranged to act on the actuating member 209 and unlock the locking mechanism, when it moves, according to the same principle described above. As can best be seen at figure 16 , the first blade 214 comprises, on its underside, side plates or fins 215, on which the longerons 214, 214' come to rest when the clasp is closed. Each of the plates 215 has an elevated edge or structure 231, intended to contain the respective spar. On the inner face of the edge 231 is a hooking member, arranged to cooperate with a complementary member arranged on the outer side of the respective spar. Together, the pair of hooking members lock the clasp in the closed position, when the two blades are folded towards each other, as described with respect to the embodiment shown in figures 1-12 . Simultaneous activation of the two pushers 207, 207' by pressure causes the side members to come together and the complementary attachment members to separate, allowing the blades 201, 202 to be unfolded to open the clasp.

Those skilled in the art will understand that one aspect of the invention resides in the arrangement of the length adjustment device on a support structure of a first blade and in the possibility of the activation of the adjustment device by a mechanism locking based on spars of a second blade whose ends can move apart or approaching preferably along an orthogonal axis or in an orthogonal plane. In the embodiments where the beams come together when unlocking, at least one of them preferably acts on a pusher. In the embodiments where the beams move apart during unlocking, at least one of them preferably acts on a pull tab. As mentioned, there may also be a pull tab as well as a pusher, the latter preferably being activated by the user directly, when the clasp is open.

A particularity of some aspects of the invention lies in the fact that the moving part 5 as well as the blocking device 33, 34, 37, arranged to block the movement of the moving part in at least one direction of movement, is located on a first blade 1, while the manipulation member 7 arranged to allow a user to unlock the blocking device 33, 34, 37 and thus to lengthen and/or shorten the useful length of the bracelet is on another, for example a second blade 2. The invention covers this aspect also in the case where the manipulation member 7 is not used to unlock and open the clasp (as shown in the drawings), but only serves to activate the blocking device.

The figures 17A to 20 show a clasp 300 according to a fourth embodiment. The clasp 300 comprises first and second blades 301, 302, the second of which comprises two side rails 314, 314'. Each of the two side rails is connected to a manipulation member 307, 307', housed in or arranged with respect to a frame 320 in a manner similar to what is described above with respect to the clasp shown in figures 15 and 16 . In particular, the loop 320 has a general U-shape and includes an orthogonal hole arranged in each of the two free ends of the U, to house the handling elements 307, 307'.

A tenon (not visible) is arranged on the underside of the loop 320, to form the second fixing member. Buckle 320 could also have a barb instead of the tang, or it could have both (tang and barb) to form a fastener, as disclosed in WO2017/144704 (eg. figure 4 ). This type of fastener is well known in the state of the art.

A difference of the fourth embodiment from the previous embodiments is that a central support structure (6, 106, 206) is absent. The mobile part 305 emerges from the free end (or from the second end) of the first blade 301 and is arranged, housed and/or stabilized in a transverse 343 arranged at said second end, as described below. Due to the absence of the central support structure, the space 306 between the two side rails 315, 315' of the first blade 301 is free and serves to house the second blade 302 when the clasp is closed. Thanks to this, the clasp 400 has a reduced thickness (extension in a radial direction), as can be seen in figure 17A , 19A and 20 , for example, and the release device as well as the length adjuster as a whole remain invisible from the outside. The rest of this description makes it possible to understand how such a discreet and space-saving design can be achieved thanks to the present invention.

The figure 18 and 19A to 20 make it possible to understand the arrangement of the movable part 305 and of the locking device 303. The movable part 305 comprises a U-shape and/or a stirrup shape, the two lateral arms 351 and 352 of which are guided and/or housed in two apartments longitudinal and lateral 332, arranged in the crossbar 343. As can be seen in figures 19B and 20 , a part or a wall of these housings is formed by the extension of the longerons 315, 315' of the first blade 301 towards the second end. The movable U-shaped part 305 also comprises the base or the transverse 354 of the U, to which is attached the first fixing member 311, produced for example in the form of a transverse rod.

At least one of the two lateral arms 351 of the mobile part 305 comprises a rack 333, arranged on the inner side face of the arm. As can be seen at Figures 19B, 19C and 20 , the blocking device, in particular a jaw or antagonist tooth 334 as well as return means 337 are also arranged in a housing in the transverse 343, so that the jaw 334 is urged in the direction of a hollow of the rack 333.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tooth 334 is part of an L-shaped part 319. The housing of this part in the transverse 337 comprises an opening or a hole 338 in the direction of the "rear", it is ie opening towards the first end of the first blade. As can be seen at figures 19B , 20 but also at the figure 18 , an arm 309 of the L-shaped piece passes through the opening 338 and emerges in the space 306 between the two longerons 315, 315' of the first blade 301. The arm 309 in the longitudinal direction of the piece 319 forms a body of actuation, which can be activated to unlock the locking mechanism 303 and thus allow length adjustment. Tooth 334 is formed by or at the end of one of the two arms of the L, while actuating member 309 is formed by the end of the other arm.

When the clasp is open ( fig. 17E ), the organ 309 becomes visible and accessible, as can be seen in figure 18 . A user can then slide it against the force of the spring 337, in an orthogonal direction, in order to disengage the tooth 334 from the rack 333 and allow adjustment of the length.

Preferably, the locking device 303 is activated indirectly, by the activation of at least one of the two actuating members 307, 307', here the member 307, preferably when the clasp 300 is closed. In the bottom views of figure 17C and 17D , it can be seen that at least one of the two side rails 314, 314' comprises a recess 356 in the lower part, in particular towards the second end of the second blade 302, so as to provide a space for the organ actuation 309, but also so as to create an inner lateral bearing surface 357 ( fig. 19C ). When a user brings the beams 314, 314' closer, by pressing on the manipulation members 307, 307', or at least on the member 307, the support surface 357 arranged on the beam 314 acts on the actuating member 309 by moving it along the orthogonal direction, in order to unlock the blocking device 303 and in particular allow the extension of the length of the bracelet.

The solution represented by the fourth embodiment makes it possible to implement a clasp of particularly reduced thickness while comprising a length adjustment device. This is achieved in particular thanks to an activation mechanism using the movement of the side rails 314, 314' of the clasp locking device. On the other hand, the arrangement of the housing of the stop structure 334 in a transverse 343, arranged below the second fixing member and/or in the continuation of the general plane of the side beams 314, 3014' of the second blade 302 (when the clasp is closed), contributes to this advantageous arrangement.

As can be seen at figures 18 to 20 , the movable part 305, extends beyond the second end of the first blade 301 when the bracelet is extended, which makes it possible to see the U-shape or stirrup of the movable part in these figures. For aesthetic reasons, it is not desired for the mobile part to become visible to the wearer when the length adjustment device is in its most elongated position. In the clasp 300, this is not the case: When a bracelet is attached to the two fasteners, a free end of one of the two bracelet strands covers the moving part 305, in such a way that it does not is not visible to the wearer of a wristwatch comprising the clasp. More specifically, when the tenon (not visible) of the second fixing member is inserted into a hole in a bracelet strand, the free end of this bracelet strand passes between the loop 320 and the tube 348 comprising the housing of the bracelet. 'handling member 307, 307', and extends exactly above the moving part 305. The end of this wristband strand also covers the first fastening member 311 as well as the end of the wristband strand attached to this last.

The invention covers combinations of the characteristics of the clasps illustrated by the drawings. For example, each of the clasps described above can be made with movable stringers as shown in figure 13 , i.e. stringers connected to handling devices arranged on the opposite side of the spar. In this case, the parts comprising the beams, for example in the general shape of an L, preferably intersect at the second end of the beams, therefore at the end opposite to the end where the beams are articulated, for example at the first blade.

By way of example, the invention covers in particular a clasp according to the fourth embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 17A-20 , in which the manipulation member 307 and/or 307' is arranged in such a way that the activation of the member generates a separation (instead of a rapprochement) of the beams and/or a pull on a pull tab which unlocks the blocking device to allow movement of the moving part and adjustment of the length. As those skilled in the art will see, the clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a manipulation member 7, 107 ', 207 ', 207 intended to allow the opening of the clasp.

The clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a manipulation member which is located on a blade other than the blade carrying the device. length adjustment, the locking device and/or in particular the moving part. The two blades are preferably hinged relative to each other, directly or via another structural element, preferably longitudinal, for example a third blade.

The clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by performing a flexible displacement, in a general plane of the clasp, of at least one of the longerons of a blade of the clasp. Those skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in adapting the content of the present disclosure to their own needs and implementing a clasp, for a timepiece or other, without departing from the scope of the present invention. A person skilled in the art could envisage a locking mechanism different from that shown in the figures, while arranging the latter so that activation of a manipulation member causes the unlocking of the locking device. The length adjustment device according to the invention, as disclosed in the claims, can be adapted to other types of clasps, for wristwatches or bracelets.

Claims (14)

1. A folding clasp (10, 100, 200, 300) for a bracelet comprising:

   - a first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and a second blade (2, 102, 202, 302), hinged to each other, the second blade (2) comprising two longitudinal members (14, 14'),

   - a first fastening member (11) connected to the first blade (1) and intended to be connected with a first free end of the bracelet;

   - a second fastening member, intended to be connected with a second free end of the bracelet;

   - a locking mechanism (3) for holding said first and second blades (1, 2) in the closed position of the clasp when said blades (1, 2) are brought together and folded over each other, said locking mechanism (3) comprising:

   - an operating member (7, 7') provided to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism (3) and to open the clasp;

   - a device to adjust the length (4) of the bracelet comprising:

   - a movable part (5) to which one of said first or second fastening member is attached, said movable part (5) being arranged to be longitudinally movable with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when adjusting the length,

   - a blocking device (33, 34, 37) arranged to block the movement of the movable part (5) in at least one longitudinal movement direction,

   characterised in that

   said locking mechanism (3) and said length-adjustment device (4) are arranged such that an activation of said operating member (7) by a user induces the unblock of said blocking device (33, 34, 37) and allows the displacement of the movable part (5) in said at least one longitudinal displacement direction.
2. The clasp according to claim 1, comprising a first and a second operating member (7, 7'), only the first operating member (7) being arranged to induce the unblocking of said blocking device (33, 34, 37).
3. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said device to adjust the length (4) comprises an actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) arranged to allow the unblock of said blocking device (33, 34, 37), said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) being separate and distinct from said activation member (7, 7').
4. The clasp according to claim 3, characterized in that said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) is directly accessible by a user only when the clasp is open and/or when said first and second blades (1, 2) are unfolded.
5. The clasp according to any one of claims 3 to 4, characterised in that said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) is arranged at least partially in a gap (16) arranged between the two longitudinal members (14, 14') of said second blade when the clasp is closed.
6. The clasp (10) according to any one of claims 3-5, characterised in that said operating member (7) is arranged to be able to act either directly or through an intermediate mechanism or structure (14) on said actuating member (9, 141, 209, 309) when the clasp is closed.
7. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said longitudinal members (14, 14') are arranged with respect to said operating member (7, 7') so as to move when said operating member (7, 7') is activated by a user, and in that the displacement of at least one of said longitudinal members (14, 14') effects an unlocking of said locking mechanism (3).
8. The clasp (10) according to any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that said longitudinal member (14) is caused to move in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when said operating member (7) is activated, and in that, during said movement of the longitudinal member (14) in the orthogonal direction, the longitudinal member (14) acts on said actuating member (9) of said device to adjust the length (4), in order to unblock the blocking device (33, 34, 37).
9. The clasp according to any of claims 3-7, characterised in that the longitudinal member (14) is arranged to act on the actuating member (9) when the clasp is closed and when the operating member (7) is activated by a user.
10. The clasp according to any one of claims 3-9, characterized in that said actuating member (9) is a pusher, connected to a jaw and/or a counter-tooth (34), in that said movable part (5) comprises a notching (33), and in that said jaw and/or counter-tooth (34) is arranged to cooperate with said notching (33) and to block the displacement of said movable part (5) in the absence of an actuation of the actuating member (9).
11. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said locking mechanism (3) and said device to adjust the length (4) are arranged such that said activation of said operating member (7, 7') by a user induces the unblock of said blocking device (33, 34, 37) only when the clasp is closed.
12. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said activation of said operating member (7, 7') by a user allows both to unlock the locking mechanism (3) and to unblock said blocking device (33, 34, 37).
13. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said movable part (5) and/or said blocking device (33, 34, 37) is arranged on the first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and said operating member (7) is arranged on said second blade (2, 102, 202, 302).
14. The clasp according to claim 10, characterized in that the blocking device further comprises a rod or bar (12) connecting the jaw (34) to said actuating member (9).

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