EP3719586B1 - Timepiece with special aesthetic effects - Google Patents

Timepiece with special aesthetic effects Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3719586B1
EP3719586B1 EP20171904.4A EP20171904A EP3719586B1 EP 3719586 B1 EP3719586 B1 EP 3719586B1 EP 20171904 A EP20171904 A EP 20171904A EP 3719586 B1 EP3719586 B1 EP 3719586B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
light
transparent
timepiece
light source
watch case
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
EP20171904.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3719586A1 (en
Inventor
Nicolas Blanckaert
André Kaltenrieder
François Klopfenstein
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.)
ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
Original Assignee
ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA filed Critical ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
Priority to EP20171904.4A priority Critical patent/EP3719586B1/en
Publication of EP3719586A1 publication Critical patent/EP3719586A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3719586B1 publication Critical patent/EP3719586B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • 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
    • G04B19/00—Indicating the time by visual means
    • G04B19/30—Illumination of dials or hands
    • 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
    • G04B37/22—Materials or processes of manufacturing pocket watch or wrist watch cases
    • 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
    • G04B45/00—Time pieces of which the indicating means or cases provoke special effects, e.g. aesthetic effects
    • G04B45/0015—Light-, colour-, line- or spot-effects caused by or on stationary parts
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04G—ELECTRONIC TIME-PIECES
    • G04G9/00—Visual time or date indication means
    • G04G9/0023—Visual time or date indication means by light valves in general
    • G04G9/0029—Details
    • G04G9/0035—Details constructional
    • G04G9/0041—Illumination devices
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04G—ELECTRONIC TIME-PIECES
    • G04G9/00—Visual time or date indication means
    • G04G9/0064—Visual time or date indication means in which functions not related to time can be displayed

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a timepiece with special aesthetic effects. More specifically, the present invention relates to a timepiece exhibiting original play of light.
  • timepieces such as wristwatches having an improved aesthetic appearance is a constant concern among watch manufacturers and in particular among those responsible for designing the various exterior elements. It would take too long to list here all the solutions that have been considered to give a timepiece as neat and aesthetic as possible.
  • US200800451 0A1 discloses a timepiece comprising a metal middle part defining a space inside which the timepiece movement is placed.
  • a light source is placed inside the middle part and a light guide is provided to allow the light to reach the bracelet.
  • the present invention is part of the quest to provide customers with watches whose appearance is both aesthetic and surprising.
  • the present invention relates to a timepiece as defined in the appended independent claim 1.
  • Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.
  • the aesthetic appearance of the timepiece can be varied almost infinitely.
  • the light source being housed in the interior volume of the case of the watch, it is possible for example to envisage that the middle part be partially or totally transparent, so that the light produced by the light source diffused through said caseband.
  • the dial can be provided totally opaque and allow light to escape only at the level of the appliques. It is also possible to cover a transparent dial with an opaque mask which also only allows light to escape at the level of the appliques.
  • the light produced by the light source directly illuminates the transparent or translucent areas of the trim element(s) through which the light is desired to come out. This embodiment is applicable when no obstacle is interposed between the light source and the trim element to be illuminated.
  • the light source is a light emitting diode or LED which emits ultraviolet, violet, blue, white or infrared light and the covering element is made of a plastic material charged with fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles.
  • the fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles absorb the emitted radiation and re-emit a homogeneous visible light.
  • the luminous effect ceases immediately after the light source has been switched off or, on the contrary, continues through the afterglow effect.
  • the light produced by the light source is injected into a light guide which then brings the light to the level of the transparent or translucent zone or zones of the element or elements of dressing considered.
  • the light guide is an optical fiber which makes it possible to circumvent any obstacles which may arise between the light source and the transparent or translucent zone of the trim element considered by which the light will escape from the interior volume of the watch case.
  • the optical fiber can be an optical fiber which diffuses the injected light over its entire length.
  • the light source is a light-emitting diode or LED mounted on a support of the printed circuit board or PCB type together with its electronic control circuit.
  • the light source is powered for example by an interchangeable or rechargeable battery or even by a solar cell.
  • the covering element concerned may be opaque in the mass or else be coated with a layer of opaque paint. This embodiment is not covered by the invention as claimed.
  • the present invention proceeds from the general inventive idea which consists in housing at least one light source in the interior volume of a watch case, the light produced by the light source being able to escape towards the outside of the watch case. by a transparent or at least translucent cylinder housed in a through passage provided in the caseband made of a metallic material. This provides a timepiece with original aesthetic effects, presenting an extremely attractive appearance in the dark or in the dark.
  • FIG. 1 is a sectional view of an embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed, on which we see a middle part 1 delimiting with a back 2 and a dial 3 an interior volume 4 of a watch case 6.
  • the watch is an electronic watch and that its movement M is placed in the bottom of the watch case 6.
  • a support plate 8 of the printed circuit board or PCB type on which are mounted a light source 10, for example of the light-emitting diode or LED type, and its electronic control circuit 12.
  • the light source 10 is powered, for example, by a rechargeable or interchangeable battery 14 and conventionally arranged under the watch movement M on the side of the bottom 2 of the watch case 6.
  • the watch can be electronic, electromechanical or even purely mechanical. In the latter case, it will suffice to provide a housing to receive a battery which will be intended to power only the light source 10 and its electronic control circuit 12.
  • a housing to receive a battery which will be intended to power only the light source 10 and its electronic control circuit 12.
  • a crown of light is created around a control member of the watch such as a push-button 16.
  • a control member of the watch such as a push-button 16.
  • the middle part 1 is metallic, a through hole 18 is made in the latter in which a transparent cylinder 20 is engaged. or at least translucent which will serve as a light guide for the light which escapes from the watch case 6.
  • the outer diameter of the transparent or translucent cylinder 20 must be greater than the outer diameter of the head of the push button 16.
  • the cylinder 20 can also serve as a mechanical guide for the push button 16.
  • the middle part 1 is made of a transparent or translucent material such as a plastic material, a ceramic material, sapphire or fused silica, it can be tinted in the mass except in a region surrounding the push-button 16 where the material remains transparent or translucent. It is also possible, to simplify the method of injection of the plastic middle part 1, to tint the latter in the mass throughout its entire volume, then to machine a through hole in which is engaged a transparent or translucent cylinder as explained above in connection with a metal frame.
  • caseband 1 by injecting a transparent plastic material, then coating the inner face of this caseband with a layer of light-absorbing material except in the region surrounding push-button 16.
  • a transparent or translucent plastic material on the trim element considered made of an opaque material.
  • any type of light source such as an incandescent lamp, light-emitting diode, organic light-emitting diode or the like can be used.
  • a light-emitting diode emitting ultraviolet, violet, blue, white or infrared light is used in combination with a middle part made of plastic material charged with fluorescent particles and/or phosphorescent.
  • the fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles absorb the radiation emitted by the diode and re-emit a homogeneous visible light.
  • the luminous effect ceases immediately after the light source has been switched off or, on the contrary, continues through the afterglow effect.
  • trim element(s) of the watch which allow all or part of the light produced by the light source to pass can be illuminated directly by this light source. These trim elements can nevertheless also be illuminated indirectly by the light source.
  • picture 3 an embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed where we see a middle part 1 of plastic material along the inner side of which has been fixed a light guide 22 which makes it possible to bring the light from the point where it is injected into the guide 22 up to the level of the transparent or translucent zone(s) of the covering element(s) considered through which the light will escape from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.
  • the light guide 22 is an optical fiber which makes it possible to circumvent any obstacles which may arise between the light source 10 and the transparent or translucent zone of the covering element considered by which the light will escape from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.
  • the optical fiber can be an optical fiber which diffuses the injected light over its entire length.
  • the caseband has been described as the only trim element. It should be clearly understood that one is in no way limited to this single embodiment and that the other elements of the watch's trim, which are the back, the dial, the bezel, the flange, the strands of the bracelet and others can be considered in the same way.
  • the bezel 26 and the dial 3 can be provided totally opaque and only allow light to escape at the level of the appliques 24.
  • the bezel 26 and the dial 3 in a material, for example plastic, transparent or translucent and then coat them with a mask in an opaque color which also allows light to escape only at the level of the appliques 24.
  • the dial 3 can be transparent or translucent and the appliques 24 opaque.
  • the back 2, the middle 1 and the dial 3 are opaque and that only a flange placed between the bezel 26 and the dial 3 is transparent or translucent, thus creating a luminous ring all around the crystal 34.
  • FIG. 5 there is shown another embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed and which aims to inject the light produced by the light source 10 into the strands 30 of a transparent or translucent bracelet.
  • a caseband 1 which has two transparent zones 32a and 32b substantially at noon and at six o'clock, that is to say at the places where the strands 30 of the bracelet are fixed to said caseband 1.
  • two light sources 10 can each be provided facing one of the two transparent zones 32a, 32b of the middle part 1. The light produced by the two light sources 10 emerges from the watchcase 6 by said two transparent zones 32a, 32b and is injected into the two transparent or translucent strands 30 of the bracelet in which it diffuses.
  • the watch case 6 comprises, on the side of the crystal 34, a digital display 36 of the liquid crystal cell type comprising a front substrate 38 extending parallel to and at a distance a rear substrate 40.
  • the front 38 and rear 40 substrates are joined together by a sealing frame 42 which delimits a sealed volume for the confinement of the liquid crystal.
  • the liquid crystal cell 36 is a so-called back-illuminated cell, that is to say it comprises a light guide 44, for example curved, arranged on the side of the rear substrate 40 and which follows the outer contour of said cell. display 36.
  • the light produced by a light source 10, typically a light-emitting diode or LED, is injected into the light guide 44 and diffuses therein so as to illuminate the cell display 36 and to allow it to be read in the dark.
  • the light which escapes through the sides 46 of the light guide 44 is used to illuminate, for example, the transparent or translucent parts of the middle part 1 of the watch.
  • the light injected into a light guide 44 is used not only to illuminate a liquid crystal display cell 36 from behind but also to illuminate all or part of the trim elements (middle case 1, bezel 26) d a watch box 6.
  • the invention relates to a timepiece comprising, in addition to a crystal, the following covering elements: a back 2, a middle part 1, a dial 3, a bezel 26 and two bracelet strands 30, the back 2, the middle part 1 and the bezel 26 defining an interior volume 4 of the watch case 6 in which is housed a timepiece movement M, the timepiece being characterized in that it comprises at least one light source 10 housed in the interior volume 4 and producing light which passes through the transparent or translucent part of the covering element concerned, a through passage in which is engaged an element transparent or translucent at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6 being provided in the covering element made of a metallic material, the piece of timepiece further comprising a winding crown or a button- pusher 16 surrounded by a transparent or translucent
  • the covering element concerned when the covering element concerned is made of a transparent or translucent plastic material, it is tinted in the mass except at the place where at the places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.
  • the covering element concerned made of transparent plastic material or translucent can be covered internally or externally with a layer of light-absorbing material except at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.
  • the covering element is charged with fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.
  • the caseband 1 can be transparent or at least translucent at least in its parts 32a, 32b opposite the zones where the strands 30 of the bracelet are connected, so that the light which passes through the transparent parts 32a, 32b of the caseband 1 diffuses in the strands 30 of the bracelet which are also transparent or translucent.
  • the covering element is made of a metallic material.
  • a through passage is provided in which a transparent or translucent element is engaged at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.
  • a transparent or translucent cylinder 20 is engaged in the through-passage 18 which can serve both as a mechanical guide for the winding crown or the push-button 16 and light guide for the light which escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6, the diameter exterior of the transparent or translucent cylinder 20 being greater than the exterior diameter of the crown or the push-button 16.
  • the ignition of the light source 10 can be controlled by the user, for example by pressing a button -push such as the push button 16 or by applying the finger to a tactile key.
  • the extinction of the light source can also be caused by an additional pressure on the push-button 16 or else be controlled by the control circuit 12 after a predetermined time interval.
  • the photosensitive sensor will control the switching on of the light source when the degree of ambient luminosity drops below a predetermined threshold and will control the extinction of the light source when the degree of ambient luminosity exceeds a predetermined threshold.
  • the switching on and off of the light source can be controlled by applying a shock to the watch case or by a sudden movement of the wrist, the shock or the acceleration being detected by an accelerometer housed in the watch.
  • the light produced by the light source 10 is injected into a diffusing optical fiber 22 which diffuses the light over its entire length.
  • dial 3 is opaque except at the level of the appliques 24 which are transparent or at least translucent and through which the light can escape from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.
  • the dial 3 can be made in an opaque material or else be transparent and be covered in this case with a layer of an opaque material except at the level of the appliques 24.

Description

La présente invention concerne une pièce d'horlogerie à effets esthétiques spéciaux. Plus précisément, la présente invention concerne une pièce d'horlogerie présentant des jeux de lumière originaux.The present invention relates to a timepiece with special aesthetic effects. More specifically, the present invention relates to a timepiece exhibiting original play of light.

Créer des pièces d'horlogerie telles que des montres-bracelets présentant un aspect esthétique amélioré est une préoccupation de tous les instants chez les fabricants horlogers et notamment chez les personnes chargées de concevoir les divers éléments d'habillage. Il serait trop long de dresser ici la liste de toutes les solutions qui ont été envisagées pour impartir à une pièce d'horlogerie un aspect aussi soigné et esthétique que possible. A titre d'exemple seulement, on peut citer la technique du guillochage des cadrans, la forme et/ou la couleur des appliques du cadran ou des aiguilles ou bien encore l'ajout de pierres précieuses ou semiprécieuses.Creating timepieces such as wristwatches having an improved aesthetic appearance is a constant concern among watch manufacturers and in particular among those responsible for designing the various exterior elements. It would take too long to list here all the solutions that have been considered to give a timepiece as neat and aesthetic as possible. By way of example only, we can cite the technique of guillochage of the dials, the shape and/or the color of the appliques of the dial or of the hands or even the addition of precious or semi-precious stones.

Le document US200800451 0A1 divulgue une pièce d'horlogerie comportant une carrure métallique définissant un espace à l'intérieur duquel est placé le mouvement horloger. Une source de lumière est placée à l'intérieur de la carrure et un guide de lumière est prévu pour permettre à la lumière d'atteindre le bracelet.The document US200800451 0A1 discloses a timepiece comprising a metal middle part defining a space inside which the timepiece movement is placed. A light source is placed inside the middle part and a light guide is provided to allow the light to reach the bracelet.

La présente invention s'inscrit dans la quête qui vise à proposer à la clientèle des montres dont l'aspect est tout à la fois esthétique et surprenant.The present invention is part of the quest to provide customers with watches whose appearance is both aesthetic and surprising.

A cet effet, la présente invention concerne une pièce d'horlogerie telle que définie dans la revendication indépendante 1 annexée. Des réalisations préférées sont définies dans les revendications dépendantes.To this end, the present invention relates to a timepiece as defined in the appended independent claim 1. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

L'aspect esthétique de la pièce d'horlogerie peut être varié pratiquement à l'infini. Selon un mode de réalisation non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée, la source lumineuse étant logée dans le volume intérieur de la boîte de la montre, on peut par exemple envisager que la carrure soit partiellement ou totalement transparente, de sorte que la lumière produite par la source lumineuse diffuse à travers ladite carrure. De même, il peut être envisagé d'éclairer les appliques au niveau du cadran de la montre. A cet effet, le cadran peut être prévu totalement opaque et ne laisser échapper la lumière qu'au niveau des appliques. On peut également prévoir de recouvrir un cadran transparent d'un masque opaque qui, lui aussi, ne laisse échapper la lumière qu'au niveau des appliques.The aesthetic appearance of the timepiece can be varied almost infinitely. According to an embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed, the light source being housed in the interior volume of the case of the watch, it is possible for example to envisage that the middle part be partially or totally transparent, so that the light produced by the light source diffused through said caseband. Similarly, it may be envisaged to illuminate the sconces at the level of the dial of the watch. To this end, the dial can be provided totally opaque and allow light to escape only at the level of the appliques. It is also possible to cover a transparent dial with an opaque mask which also only allows light to escape at the level of the appliques.

Différents modes d'échappement de la lumière peuvent être prévus. Selon une variante simplifiée non couverte par l'invention telle que revendiquée, la lumière produite par la source lumineuse éclaire directement les zones transparentes ou translucides du ou des éléments d'habillage au travers desquels on souhaite que la lumière sorte. Ce mode de réalisation est applicable lorsqu'aucun obstacle ne vient s'interposer entre la source lumineuse et l'élément d'habillage à éclairer.Different light escape modes can be provided. According to a simplified variant not covered by the invention as claimed, the light produced by the light source directly illuminates the transparent or translucent areas of the trim element(s) through which the light is desired to come out. This embodiment is applicable when no obstacle is interposed between the light source and the trim element to be illuminated.

Selon une seconde variante de réalisation non couverte par l'invention telle que revendiquée, la source de lumière est une diode électroluminescente ou LED qui émet de la lumière ultraviolette, violette, bleue, blanche ou infrarouge et l'élément d'habillage est réalisé en un matériau plastique chargé avec des particules fluorescentes et/ou phosphorescentes. De la sorte, les particules fluorescentes et/ou phosphorescentes absorbent le rayonnement émis et réémettent une lumière visible homogène. En fonction du type de particules choisi, fluorescentes et/ou phosphorescentes, l'effet lumineux cesse aussitôt après extinction de la source lumineuse ou au contraire se poursuit par effet de rémanence.According to a second embodiment variant not covered by the invention as claimed, the light source is a light emitting diode or LED which emits ultraviolet, violet, blue, white or infrared light and the covering element is made of a plastic material charged with fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles. In this way, the fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles absorb the emitted radiation and re-emit a homogeneous visible light. Depending on the type of particles chosen, fluorescent and/or phosphorescent, the luminous effect ceases immediately after the light source has been switched off or, on the contrary, continues through the afterglow effect.

Selon une troisième variante de réalisation non couverte par l'invention telle que revendiquée, la lumière produite par la source lumineuse est injectée dans un guide de lumière qui amène ensuite la lumière au niveau de la ou des zones transparentes ou translucides du ou des éléments d'habillage considérés. Selon une variante non couverte par l'invention telle que revendiquée, le guide de lumière est une fibre optique qui permet de contourner les éventuels obstacles qui peuvent se dresser entre la source de lumière et la zone transparente ou translucide de l'élément d'habillage considéré par laquelle la lumière va s'échapper du volume intérieur de la boîte de montre. La fibre optique peut être une fibre optique qui diffuse la lumière injectée sur toute sa longueur.According to a third embodiment variant not covered by the invention as claimed, the light produced by the light source is injected into a light guide which then brings the light to the level of the transparent or translucent zone or zones of the element or elements of dressing considered. According to a variant not covered by the invention as claimed, the light guide is an optical fiber which makes it possible to circumvent any obstacles which may arise between the light source and the transparent or translucent zone of the trim element considered by which the light will escape from the interior volume of the watch case. The optical fiber can be an optical fiber which diffuses the injected light over its entire length.

Préférentiellement, la source lumineuse est une diode électroluminescente ou LED montée sur un support du type plaquette de circuit imprimé ou PCB conjointement avec son circuit électronique de commande. La source lumineuse est alimentée par exemple par une batterie interchangeable ou rechargeable ou bien encore par une cellule solaire.Preferably, the light source is a light-emitting diode or LED mounted on a support of the printed circuit board or PCB type together with its electronic control circuit. The light source is powered for example by an interchangeable or rechargeable battery or even by a solar cell.

Aux endroits où la lumière ne doit pas passer, l'élément d'habillage concerné peut être opaque dans la masse ou bien être revêtu d'une couche de peinture opaque. Ce mode de réalisation n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée.At the places where the light must not pass, the covering element concerned may be opaque in the mass or else be coated with a layer of opaque paint. This embodiment is not covered by the invention as claimed.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention ressortiront plus clairement de la description détaillée qui suit de divers exemples de réalisation de l'invention, ces exemples étant donnés à titre purement illustratif et non limitatif seulement en liaison avec le dessin annexé sur lequel :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en coupe d'une boîte de montre équipée d'une source lumineuse selon un mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue partielle en coupe d'une carrure de montre selon l'invention dans la région d'un bouton-poussoir ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue de dessus d'une carrure de montre le long du côté intérieur de laquelle est fixée une fibre optique diffusante dans laquelle est injectée de la lumière selon un mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert pas l'invention telle que revendiquée ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue de dessus d'une montre-bracelet comprenant un cadran à travers les appliques duquel passe de la lumière selon un mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue de dessus d'une montre-bracelet comprenant deux brins de bracelet dans lesquels la lumière diffuse selon un mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée, et
  • la figure 6 est une vue en coupe d'une boîte de montre à affichage digital selon un mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention, these examples being given for purely illustrative and non-limiting purposes only in connection with the appended drawing in which:
  • there figure 1 is a sectional view of a watch case equipped with a light source according to an embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed;
  • there picture 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a watch case according to the invention in the region of a push-button;
  • there picture 3 is a top view of a watch middle along the inner side of which is fixed a diffusing optical fiber into which light is injected according to an embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed;
  • there figure 4 is a top view of a wristwatch comprising a dial through the appliques of which light passes according to an embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed;
  • there figure 5 is a top view of a wristwatch comprising two bracelet strands in which the light diffuses according to an embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed, and
  • there figure 6 is a sectional view of a digital display watch case according to an embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed.

La présente invention procède de l'idée générale inventive qui consiste à loger au moins une source lumineuse dans le volume intérieur d'une boîte de montre, la lumière produite par la source lumineuse pouvant s'échapper vers l'extérieur de la boîte de montre par un cylindre transparent ou tout du moins translucide logé dans un passage traversant ménagé dans la carrure réalisée en un matériau métallique. On procure ainsi une pièce d'horlogerie aux effets esthétiques originaux présentant un aspect extrêmement attrayant dans le noir ou l'obscurité.The present invention proceeds from the general inventive idea which consists in housing at least one light source in the interior volume of a watch case, the light produced by the light source being able to escape towards the outside of the watch case. by a transparent or at least translucent cylinder housed in a through passage provided in the caseband made of a metallic material. This provides a timepiece with original aesthetic effects, presenting an extremely attractive appearance in the dark or in the dark.

La figure 1 est une vue en coupe d'un mode de réalisation non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée, sur laquelle on voit une carrure 1 délimitant avec un fond 2 et un cadran 3 un volume intérieur 4 d'une boîte de montre 6. Pour les besoins de la présente description, on imaginera que la montre est une montre électronique et que son mouvement M est disposé dans le fond de la boîte de montre 6. De la sorte, on peut disposer au dessus du mouvement M une plaque-support 8 du type plaquette de circuit imprimé ou PCB sur laquelle sont montés une source lumineuse 10 par exemple du type diode électroluminescente ou LED et son circuit électronique de commande 12. La source lumineuse 10 est alimentée par exemple par une batterie 14 rechargeable ou interchangeable et classiquement disposée sous le mouvement d'horlogerie M du côté du fond 2 de la boîte de montre 6. On comprendra que la montre peut être électronique, électromécanique voire même purement mécanique. Dans ce dernier cas, il suffira de prévoir un logement pour recevoir une pile qui sera destinée à alimenter uniquement la source lumineuse 10 et son circuit électronique de commande 12. Ainsi, une telle solution peut être appliquée à tout type de montre-bracelet, la seule contrainte à respecter étant qu'il n'y ait pas d'obstacle à la propagation de la lumière entre la source lumineuse et l'élément d'habillage par lequel ladite lumière doit sortir.There figure 1 is a sectional view of an embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed, on which we see a middle part 1 delimiting with a back 2 and a dial 3 an interior volume 4 of a watch case 6. For the needs of the present description, it will be imagined that the watch is an electronic watch and that its movement M is placed in the bottom of the watch case 6. In this way, one can place above the movement M a support plate 8 of the printed circuit board or PCB type on which are mounted a light source 10, for example of the light-emitting diode or LED type, and its electronic control circuit 12. The light source 10 is powered, for example, by a rechargeable or interchangeable battery 14 and conventionally arranged under the watch movement M on the side of the bottom 2 of the watch case 6. It will be understood that the watch can be electronic, electromechanical or even purely mechanical. In the latter case, it will suffice to provide a housing to receive a battery which will be intended to power only the light source 10 and its electronic control circuit 12. Thus, such a solution can be applied to any type of wristwatch, the the only constraint to be observed being that there is no obstacle to the propagation of light between the light source and the covering element through which said light must exit.

Selon le mode de réalisation de l'invention telle que revendiquée illustré à la figure 2, on crée une couronne de lumière autour d'un organe de commande de la montre tel qu'un bouton-poussoir 16. Si la carrure 1 est métallique, on pratique dans cette dernière un trou traversant 18 dans lequel est engagé un cylindre 20 transparent ou tout du moins translucide qui va servir de guide de lumière pour la lumière qui s'échappe de la boîte de montre 6. On comprendra que pour obtenir l'effet désiré, à savoir former une couronne de lumière autour de la tête du bouton-poussoir 16, il faut que le diamètre extérieur du cylindre transparent ou translucide 20 soit supérieur au diamètre extérieur de la tête du bouton-poussoir 16.According to the embodiment of the invention as claimed illustrated in figure 2 , a crown of light is created around a control member of the watch such as a push-button 16. If the middle part 1 is metallic, a through hole 18 is made in the latter in which a transparent cylinder 20 is engaged. or at least translucent which will serve as a light guide for the light which escapes from the watch case 6. It will be understood that to obtain the desired effect, namely to form a crown of light around the head of the button- button 16, the outer diameter of the transparent or translucent cylinder 20 must be greater than the outer diameter of the head of the push button 16.

Outre sa fonction de guide de lumière, le cylindre 20 peut également servir de guide mécanique pour le bouton-poussoir 16. Bien entendu, il est également possible d'introduire dans le cylindre 20 un insert qui servira de guide mécanique au bouton-poussoir 16. Si la carrure 1 est réalisée en un matériau transparent ou translucide tel qu'un matériau plastique, un matériau céramique, du saphir ou de la silice fondue, on peut la teinter dans la masse sauf dans une région entourant le bouton-poussoir 16 où le matériau reste transparent ou translucide. On peut également, pour simplifier le procédé d'injection de la carrure plastique 1, teinter cette dernière dans la masse dans tout son volume, puis usiner un trou traversant dans lequel est engagé un cylindre transparent ou translucide comme expliqué ci-dessus en liaison avec une carrure métallique. Une autre solution encore consiste à réaliser la carrure 1 par injection d'un matériau plastique transparent, puis à revêtir la face intérieure de cette carrure d'une couche de matériau absorbant la lumière sauf dans la région entourant le bouton-poussoir 16. Pour varier les effets notamment au voisinage du bouton-poussoir 16, il est aussi possible de surmouler un matériau plastique transparent ou translucide sur l'élément d'habillage considéré réalisé dans un matériau opaque.In addition to its light guide function, the cylinder 20 can also serve as a mechanical guide for the push button 16. Of course, it is also possible to introduce into the cylinder 20 an insert which will serve as a mechanical guide for the push button 16 If the middle part 1 is made of a transparent or translucent material such as a plastic material, a ceramic material, sapphire or fused silica, it can be tinted in the mass except in a region surrounding the push-button 16 where the material remains transparent or translucent. It is also possible, to simplify the method of injection of the plastic middle part 1, to tint the latter in the mass throughout its entire volume, then to machine a through hole in which is engaged a transparent or translucent cylinder as explained above in connection with a metal frame. Yet another solution consists in making caseband 1 by injecting a transparent plastic material, then coating the inner face of this caseband with a layer of light-absorbing material except in the region surrounding push-button 16. To vary the effects in particular in the vicinity of the push button 16, it is also possible to overmold a transparent or translucent plastic material on the trim element considered made of an opaque material.

Tout type de source lumineuse tel que lampe à incandescence, diode électroluminescente, diode organique électroluminescente ou autre peut être utilisé. Dans un mode particulier de réalisation non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée, on utilise une diode électroluminescente émettant de la lumière ultraviolette, violette, bleue, blanche ou infrarouge en combinaison avec une carrure réalisée en matériau plastique chargé de particules fluorescentes et/ou phosphorescentes. De la sorte, les particules fluorescentes et/ou phosphorescentes absorbent le rayonnement émis par la diode et réémettent une lumière visible homogène. En fonction du type de particules choisi, fluorescentes et/ou phosphorescentes, l'effet lumineux cesse aussitôt après extinction de la source lumineuse ou au contraire se poursuit par effet de rémanence.Any type of light source such as an incandescent lamp, light-emitting diode, organic light-emitting diode or the like can be used. In a particular embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed, a light-emitting diode emitting ultraviolet, violet, blue, white or infrared light is used in combination with a middle part made of plastic material charged with fluorescent particles and/or phosphorescent. In this way, the fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles absorb the radiation emitted by the diode and re-emit a homogeneous visible light. Depending on the type of particles chosen, fluorescent and/or phosphorescent, the luminous effect ceases immediately after the light source has been switched off or, on the contrary, continues through the afterglow effect.

Le ou les éléments d'habillage de la montre qui laissent passer tout ou partie de la lumière produite par la source lumineuse peuvent être éclairés directement par cette source lumineuse. Ces éléments d'habillage peuvent néanmoins être également éclairés de manière indirecte par la source lumineuse. A titre d'exemple, on a représenté à la figure 3 un mode de réalisation non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée où l'on voit une carrure 1 en matériau plastique le long du côté intérieur de laquelle a été fixé un guide de lumière 22 qui permet d'amener la lumière depuis le point où elle est injectée dans le guide 22 jusqu'au niveau de la ou des zones transparentes ou translucides du ou des éléments d'habillage considérés par lesquelles la lumière va s'échapper du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6. Selon une variante non couverte par l'invention telle que revendiquée, le guide de lumière 22 est une fibre optique qui permet de contourner les éventuels obstacles qui peuvent se dresser entre la source de lumière 10 et la zone transparente ou translucide de l'élément d'habillage considéré par laquelle la lumière va s'échapper du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6. Comme illustré sur la figure 3, la fibre optique peut être une fibre optique qui diffuse la lumière injectée sur toute sa longueur.The trim element(s) of the watch which allow all or part of the light produced by the light source to pass can be illuminated directly by this light source. These trim elements can nevertheless also be illuminated indirectly by the light source. By way of example, we have represented picture 3 an embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed where we see a middle part 1 of plastic material along the inner side of which has been fixed a light guide 22 which makes it possible to bring the light from the point where it is injected into the guide 22 up to the level of the transparent or translucent zone(s) of the covering element(s) considered through which the light will escape from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6. According to a variant not covered by the invention as claimed, the light guide 22 is an optical fiber which makes it possible to circumvent any obstacles which may arise between the light source 10 and the transparent or translucent zone of the covering element considered by which the light will escape from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6. As illustrated in the picture 3 , the optical fiber can be an optical fiber which diffuses the injected light over its entire length.

Jusqu'à présent, on a décrit la carrure comme seul élément d'habillage. Il doit être bien entendu que l'on n'est nullement limité à ce seul mode de réalisation et que les autres éléments d'habillage de la montre que sont le fond, le cadran, la lunette, le rehaut, les brins du bracelet et autres peuvent être pareillement envisagés. Ainsi, comme représenté à la figure 4, on peut par exemple éclairer les appliques 24 au niveau de la lunette 26 et du cadran 3 selon un mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée. A cette fin, la lunette 26 et le cadran 3 peuvent être prévus totalement opaques et ne laisser échapper de la lumière qu'au niveau des appliques 24. On peut également envisager de réaliser la lunette 26 et le cadran 3 en un matériau, par exemple plastique, transparent ou translucide puis les revêtir d'un masque en une couleur opaque qui, lui aussi, ne laisse échapper la lumière qu'au niveau des appliques 24. Inversement, le cadran 3 peut être transparent ou translucide et les appliques 24 opaques. On peut également envisager que le fond 2, la carrure 1 et le cadran 3 soient opaques et que seul un rehaut disposé entre la lunette 26 et le cadran 3 soit transparent ou translucide, créant ainsi un anneau lumineux tout autour de la glace 34.Until now, the caseband has been described as the only trim element. It should be clearly understood that one is in no way limited to this single embodiment and that the other elements of the watch's trim, which are the back, the dial, the bezel, the flange, the strands of the bracelet and others can be considered in the same way. Thus, as shown in figure 4 , it is for example possible to illuminate the appliques 24 at the level of the bezel 26 and of the dial 3 according to an embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed. To this end, the bezel 26 and the dial 3 can be provided totally opaque and only allow light to escape at the level of the appliques 24. It is also possible to envisage making the bezel 26 and the dial 3 in a material, for example plastic, transparent or translucent and then coat them with a mask in an opaque color which also allows light to escape only at the level of the appliques 24. Conversely, the dial 3 can be transparent or translucent and the appliques 24 opaque. We can also consider that the back 2, the middle 1 and the dial 3 are opaque and that only a flange placed between the bezel 26 and the dial 3 is transparent or translucent, thus creating a luminous ring all around the crystal 34.

A la figure 5, on a représenté un autre mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée et qui vise à injecter la lumière produite par la source lumineuse 10 dans les brins 30 d'un bracelet transparent ou translucide. A cet effet, on prévoit une carrure 1 qui présente deux zones transparentes 32a et 32b sensiblement à midi et à six heures, c'est-à-dire aux endroits où les brins 30 du bracelet sont fixés à ladite carrure 1. Du côté intérieur de la boîte de montre 6, on peut prévoir deux sources lumineuses 10 chacune en regard de l'une des deux zones transparentes 32a, 32b de la carrure 1. La lumière produite par les deux sources lumineuses 10 émerge de la boîte de montre 6 par lesdites deux zones transparentes 32a, 32b et est injectée dans les deux brins 30 transparents ou translucides du bracelet dans lesquels elle diffuse.To the figure 5 , there is shown another embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed and which aims to inject the light produced by the light source 10 into the strands 30 of a transparent or translucent bracelet. To this end, provision is made for a caseband 1 which has two transparent zones 32a and 32b substantially at noon and at six o'clock, that is to say at the places where the strands 30 of the bracelet are fixed to said caseband 1. On the inside of the watchcase 6, two light sources 10 can each be provided facing one of the two transparent zones 32a, 32b of the middle part 1. The light produced by the two light sources 10 emerges from the watchcase 6 by said two transparent zones 32a, 32b and is injected into the two transparent or translucent strands 30 of the bracelet in which it diffuses.

La figure 6 annexée à la présente demande de brevet représente une vue en coupe selon l'axe 3h00-9h00 d'une boîte de montre 6 à affichage digital selon un mode de réalisation qui n'est pas couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée. Comme on peut le constater à l'examen de cette figure, la boîte de montre 6 comprend, du côté de la glace 34, un affichage digital 36 du type cellule à cristal liquide comprenant un substrat avant 38 s'étendant parallèlement à et à distance d'un substrat arrière 40. Les substrats avant 38 et arrière 40 sont réunis entre eux par un cadre de scellement 42 qui délimite un volume étanche pour le confinement du cristal liquide. La cellule à cristal liquide 36 est une cellule dite rétro-éclairée, c'est-à-dire qu'elle comprend un guide de lumière 44 par exemple courbe disposé du côté du substrat arrière 40 et qui suit le contour extérieur de ladite cellule d'affichage 36. La lumière produite par une source lumineuse 10, typiquement une diode électroluminescente ou LED, est injectée dans le guide de lumière 44 et diffuse dans celui-ci de façon à éclairer la cellule d'affichage 36 et à permettre sa lecture dans l'obscurité. On utilise la lumière qui s'échappe par les côtés 46 du guide de lumière 44 pour éclairer par exemple les parties transparentes ou translucides de la carrure 1 de la montre. Ainsi, on utilise la lumière injectée dans un guide de lumière 44 non seulement pour éclairer par l'arrière une cellule d'affichage à cristaux liquides 36 mais également pour éclairer tout ou partie des éléments d'habillage (carrure 1, lunette 26) d'une boîte de montre 6.There figure 6 appended to this patent application shows a sectional view along the 3:00-9:00 axis of a watch case 6 with digital display according to an embodiment which is not covered by the invention as claimed. As can be seen on examining this figure, the watch case 6 comprises, on the side of the crystal 34, a digital display 36 of the liquid crystal cell type comprising a front substrate 38 extending parallel to and at a distance a rear substrate 40. The front 38 and rear 40 substrates are joined together by a sealing frame 42 which delimits a sealed volume for the confinement of the liquid crystal. The liquid crystal cell 36 is a so-called back-illuminated cell, that is to say it comprises a light guide 44, for example curved, arranged on the side of the rear substrate 40 and which follows the outer contour of said cell. display 36. The light produced by a light source 10, typically a light-emitting diode or LED, is injected into the light guide 44 and diffuses therein so as to illuminate the cell display 36 and to allow it to be read in the dark. The light which escapes through the sides 46 of the light guide 44 is used to illuminate, for example, the transparent or translucent parts of the middle part 1 of the watch. Thus, the light injected into a light guide 44 is used not only to illuminate a liquid crystal display cell 36 from behind but also to illuminate all or part of the trim elements (middle case 1, bezel 26) d a watch box 6.

Il va de soi que diverses variantes et modifications simples peuvent être envisagées par l'homme du métier sans sortir du cadre de l'invention tel que défini par les revendications annexées. Ainsi, comme on l'aura compris de ce qui précède, l'invention concerne une pièce d'horlogerie comportant, en plus d'une glace, les éléments d'habillage suivants : un fond 2, une carrure 1, un cadran 3, une lunette 26 et deux brins 30 de bracelet, le fond 2, la carrure 1 et la lunette 26 définissant un volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6 dans lequel est logé un mouvement d'horlogerie M, la pièce d'horlogerie étant caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend au moins une source de lumière 10 logée dans le volume intérieur 4 et produisant une lumière qui passe à travers la partie transparente ou translucide de l'élément d'habillage concerné, un passage traversant dans lequel est engagé un élément transparent ou translucide à l'endroit ou aux endroits où l'on souhaite que la lumière s'échappe du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6 étant prévu dans l'élément d'habillage réalisé en un matériau métallique, la pièce d'horlogerie comprenant en outre une couronne de remontoir ou un bouton-poussoir 16 entouré par un cylindre 20 transparent ou translucide qui sert de guide de lumière pour la lumière qui s'échappe du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6, le diamètre extérieur du cylindre 20 transparent ou translucide étant supérieur au diamètre de la couronne ou du bouton-poussoir 16.It goes without saying that various variants and simple modifications can be envisaged by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Thus, as will have been understood from the foregoing, the invention relates to a timepiece comprising, in addition to a crystal, the following covering elements: a back 2, a middle part 1, a dial 3, a bezel 26 and two bracelet strands 30, the back 2, the middle part 1 and the bezel 26 defining an interior volume 4 of the watch case 6 in which is housed a timepiece movement M, the timepiece being characterized in that it comprises at least one light source 10 housed in the interior volume 4 and producing light which passes through the transparent or translucent part of the covering element concerned, a through passage in which is engaged an element transparent or translucent at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6 being provided in the covering element made of a metallic material, the piece of timepiece further comprising a winding crown or a button- pusher 16 surrounded by a transparent or translucent cylinder 20 which serves as a light guide for the light which escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6, the external diameter of the transparent or translucent cylinder 20 being greater than the diameter of the crown or push button 16.

Selon un mode de réalisation non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée, lorsque l'élément d'habillage concerné est réalisé en un matériau plastique transparent ou translucide, il est teinté dans la masse sauf à l'endroit ou aux endroits où l'on souhaite que la lumière s'échappe du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6. Selon une variante non couverte par l'invention telle que revendiquée, l'élément d'habillage concerné réalisé en matériau plastique transparent ou translucide peut être recouvert intérieurement ou extérieurement d'une couche de matériau absorbant la lumière sauf à l'endroit ou aux endroits où l'on souhaite que la lumière s'échappe du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6.According to an embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed, when the covering element concerned is made of a transparent or translucent plastic material, it is tinted in the mass except at the place where at the places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6. According to a variant not covered by the invention as claimed, the covering element concerned made of transparent plastic material or translucent can be covered internally or externally with a layer of light-absorbing material except at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.

Dans le cas non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée où la source de lumière 10 émet de la lumière ultraviolette, violette, bleue, blanche ou infrarouge, l'élément d'habillage est chargé avec des particules fluorescentes et/ou phosphorescentes à l'endroit ou aux endroits où l'on souhaite que la lumière s'échappe du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6.In the case not covered by the invention as claimed where the light source 10 emits ultraviolet, violet, blue, white or infrared light, the covering element is charged with fluorescent and/or phosphorescent particles at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6.

Comme on l'aura également compris de ce qui précède, on cherche à faire s'échapper de la lumière hors du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6 vers l'extérieur. Un autre aspect non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée consiste à éclairer depuis l'intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6 des éléments extérieurs à celle-ci. Ainsi, la carrure 1 peut être transparente ou tout du moins translucide au moins dans ses parties 32a, 32b en regard des zones où se raccordent les brins 30 du bracelet, de sorte que la lumière qui traverse les parties transparentes 32a, 32b de la carrure 1 diffuse dans les brins 30 du bracelet qui sont également transparents ou translucides.As will also have been understood from the foregoing, it is sought to cause light to escape from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6 towards the outside. Another aspect not covered by the invention as claimed consists in illuminating from the inside 4 of the watch case 6 elements outside the latter. Thus, the caseband 1 can be transparent or at least translucent at least in its parts 32a, 32b opposite the zones where the strands 30 of the bracelet are connected, so that the light which passes through the transparent parts 32a, 32b of the caseband 1 diffuses in the strands 30 of the bracelet which are also transparent or translucent.

Selon l'autre variante, l'élément d'habillage est réalisé en un matériau métallique. Dans ce cas, on prévoit un passage traversant dans lequel est engagé un élément transparent ou translucide à l'endroit ou aux endroits où l'on souhaite que la lumière s'échappe du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6. Selon l'invention telle que revendiquée, lorsque la pièce d'horlogerie comprend une couronne de remontoir ou un bouton-poussoir 16, on engage dans le passage traversant 18 un cylindre 20 transparent ou translucide qui peut servir à la fois de guide mécanique pour la couronne de remontoir ou le bouton-poussoir 16 et de guide de lumière pour la lumière qui s'échappe du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6, le diamètre extérieur du cylindre 20 transparent ou translucide étant supérieur au diamètre extérieur de la couronne ou du bouton-poussoir 16. On notera qu'au moins l'allumage de la source lumineuse 10 peut être commandé par l'utilisateur par exemple par pression sur un bouton-poussoir tel que le bouton-poussoir 16 ou en appliquant le doigt sur une touche tactile. L'extinction de la source lumineuse peut également être provoquée par une pression supplémentaire sur le bouton-poussoir 16 ou bien être commandée par le circuit de commande 12 après un intervalle de temps prédéterminé. On peut également prévoir que l'allumage et l'extinction de la source lumineuse 10 soient commandés par un système automatique tel qu'un capteur photosensible en fonction du degré de luminosité ambiante. Le capteur photosensible commandera l'allumage de la source lumineuse lorsque le degré de luminosité ambiante passera en-dessous d'un seuil prédéterminé et commandera l'extinction de la source lumineuse lorsque le degré de luminosité ambiante excèdera un seuil prédéterminé. Selon encore une autre variante, l'allumage et l'extinction de la source lumineuse peuvent être commandés par application d'un choc sur la boîte de montre ou par un mouvement brusque du poignet, le choc ou l'accélération étant détecté par un accéléromètre logé dans la montre.According to the other variant, the covering element is made of a metallic material. In this case, a through passage is provided in which a transparent or translucent element is engaged at the place or places where it is desired that the light escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6. According to the invention as claimed, when the timepiece comprises a winding crown or a push-button 16, a transparent or translucent cylinder 20 is engaged in the through-passage 18 which can serve both as a mechanical guide for the winding crown or the push-button 16 and light guide for the light which escapes from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6, the diameter exterior of the transparent or translucent cylinder 20 being greater than the exterior diameter of the crown or the push-button 16. It will be noted that at least the ignition of the light source 10 can be controlled by the user, for example by pressing a button -push such as the push button 16 or by applying the finger to a tactile key. The extinction of the light source can also be caused by an additional pressure on the push-button 16 or else be controlled by the control circuit 12 after a predetermined time interval. Provision can also be made for the switching on and off of the light source 10 to be controlled by an automatic system such as a photosensitive sensor depending on the degree of ambient light. The photosensitive sensor will control the switching on of the light source when the degree of ambient luminosity drops below a predetermined threshold and will control the extinction of the light source when the degree of ambient luminosity exceeds a predetermined threshold. According to yet another variant, the switching on and off of the light source can be controlled by applying a shock to the watch case or by a sudden movement of the wrist, the shock or the acceleration being detected by an accelerometer housed in the watch.

Selon encore une autre variante non couverte par l'invention telle que revendiquée, la lumière produite par la source lumineuse 10 est injectée dans une fibre optique diffusante 22 qui diffuse la lumière sur toute sa longueur.According to yet another variant not covered by the invention as claimed, the light produced by the light source 10 is injected into a diffusing optical fiber 22 which diffuses the light over its entire length.

On peut également envisager de faire sortir la lumière par le cadran 3 selon un mode de réalisation non couvert par l'invention telle que revendiquée. Dans ce cas, le cadran 3 est opaque sauf au niveau des appliques 24 qui sont transparentes ou tout du moins translucides et à travers lesquelles la lumière peut s'échapper du volume intérieur 4 de la boîte de montre 6. Le cadran 3 peut être réalisé en un matériau opaque ou bien être transparent et être recouvert dans ce cas d'une couche d'un matériau opaque sauf au niveau des appliques 24.It is also possible to envisage causing the light to exit through dial 3 according to an embodiment not covered by the invention as claimed. In this case, the dial 3 is opaque except at the level of the appliques 24 which are transparent or at least translucent and through which the light can escape from the interior volume 4 of the watch case 6. The dial 3 can be made in an opaque material or else be transparent and be covered in this case with a layer of an opaque material except at the level of the appliques 24.

Claims (5)

  1. Timepiece which includes, in addition to a crystal, the following external elements: a back cover (2), a middle part (1), a dial (3), a bezel (26) and two wristband strands (30), wherein at least the middle part (1) is made of a metallic material, wherein the middle part (1) and the bezel (26) define an internal volume (4) of the watch case (6) which houses a watch movement (M), the timepiece including at least one light source (10) housed in the internal volume (4) of the watch case (6) and producing a light, a through passage in which a transparent or translucent cylinder (20) is engaged at the location or locations where the light is expected to escape from the internal volume (4) of the watch case (6) being provided in the middle part (1) made of a metallic material, the timepiece further comprising a winding crown or push-button (16) surrounded by the transparent or translucent cylinder (20), which acts as a light guide for the light that escapes from the internal volume (4) of the watch case (6), the external diameter of the transparent or translucent cylinder (20) being greater than the diameter of the crown or push-button (16).
  2. Timepiece according to claim 1, characterized in that the cylinder (20) also acts as a mechanical guide for the winding crown or the push-button (16).
  3. Timepiece according to any of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that at least the switching on of the light source (10) is controlled by the user.
  4. Timepiece according to any of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that at least the switching on of the light source (10) is controlled by an automatic system.
  5. Timepiece according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the timepiece further includes, on the side of a crystal (34), a digital display (36) underneath which there is arranged a light guide (44) into which the light produced by a light source (10) is injected for back lighting said digital display (36), the light which escapes through the sides (46) of the light guide (44) which are opposite the middle part (1) and the back cover (2) of the watch case (6) pass through the transparent or translucent part of the external element concerned.
EP20171904.4A 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects Active EP3719586B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP20171904.4A EP3719586B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP09163086A EP2264554A1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects
EP20171904.4A EP3719586B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects
EP11175437.0A EP2392977B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects

Related Parent Applications (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11175437.0A Division EP2392977B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects
EP11175437.0A Division-Into EP2392977B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects
EP09163086A Division EP2264554A1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3719586A1 EP3719586A1 (en) 2020-10-07
EP3719586B1 true EP3719586B1 (en) 2023-03-01

Family

ID=40984783

Family Applications (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP09163086A Withdrawn EP2264554A1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects
EP20171904.4A Active EP3719586B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects
EP11175437.0A Active EP2392977B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP09163086A Withdrawn EP2264554A1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11175437.0A Active EP2392977B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2009-06-18 Timepiece with special aesthetic effects

Country Status (1)

Country Link
EP (3) EP2264554A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE212014000245U1 (en) * 2014-01-20 2016-08-24 The Swatch Group Research And Development Ltd. Watch with at least one photoluminescent component
EP3070539A1 (en) * 2015-03-17 2016-09-21 Omega SA Wristwatch comprising a dial provided with a light spot
EP3306419B1 (en) 2016-10-05 2019-11-27 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Timepiece seal
CN108213878B (en) * 2018-03-27 2019-04-26 深圳市帕玛精品制造有限公司 The production method and wrist-watch watch rim of wrist-watch watch rim
EP4102307A1 (en) * 2021-06-08 2022-12-14 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Timepiece with localised illumination

Family Cites Families (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4247928A (en) * 1979-10-17 1981-01-27 Timex Corporation Integral lightpipe and display holder for a timepiece
JP3477814B2 (en) * 1994-04-27 2003-12-10 カシオ計算機株式会社 Light emitting device and electronic equipment having light emitting device
JP2896980B2 (en) * 1994-10-27 1999-05-31 セイコープレシジョン株式会社 EL display device and luminescent dial using this EL display device
US5604716A (en) * 1994-12-22 1997-02-18 Cheung; James Black light illuminated analog watch
US5734627A (en) * 1996-11-27 1998-03-31 Timex Corporation Silhouette image on illuminated watch dial
JPH1195698A (en) * 1997-09-19 1999-04-09 Casio Comput Co Ltd Emitting device, clock, electronic equipment, and method of manufacturing light emitting device
US6052338A (en) * 1999-04-22 2000-04-18 Shevins; Herbert Wristwatch with an illuminated ornamental display system
US6685353B2 (en) * 2002-06-11 2004-02-03 Vincent Arroyo Dice clock with flashing light show for gambling
US6690623B1 (en) * 2002-11-08 2004-02-10 Arnold K. Maano Multi-functional time indicating device with a multi-colored fiber optic display
EP1666992A1 (en) * 2004-12-02 2006-06-07 Asulab S.A. Timepiece comprising a luminous decoration
JP2007279020A (en) 2006-03-13 2007-10-25 Citizen Holdings Co Ltd Wearable electronic device and biometric apparatus using wearable electronic device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3719586A1 (en) 2020-10-07
EP2392977A1 (en) 2011-12-07
EP2392977B1 (en) 2020-10-28
EP2264554A1 (en) 2010-12-22

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2010146162A1 (en) Timepiece with special decorative effects
EP2473884B1 (en) Decorative element for a wristwatch
EP2271232B1 (en) Decorative portable object
EP2084585B1 (en) Timepiece with an illumination system comprising an ultraviolet light emitting diode
EP3719586B1 (en) Timepiece with special aesthetic effects
EP1870786A1 (en) Clock piece with an illumination system comprising a light emitting diode
EP2950166B1 (en) Set of luminous display hands for a portable object such as a watch or a measuring instrument
EP3637200B1 (en) Luminous display device
EP2950167B1 (en) Luminous display hand for portable object such as a watch or a measuring instrument
CH701328A2 (en) Timepiece e.g. electronic wristwatch, has light source housed in interior volume of watch case, and producing light that passes through transparent or translucent portion such as middle, of casing element
CH701301B1 (en) Timepiece comprising at least one light source.
EP4102309A1 (en) Timepiece including a trim component provided with a part made of zirconia
EP4102307A1 (en) Timepiece with localised illumination
CH698868B1 (en) Time piece e.g. wristwatch, has UV LED for illuminating zones incorporating fluorescent pigments of indicator elements, and inner surface of glass partially covered with reflecting layer reflecting UV light on zones of elements
CH716226B1 (en) WATCHMAKING PART EQUIPPED WITH A LIGHTING DEVICE INCLUDING AN ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT-LUMINESCENT DIODE.
CH701750A2 (en) Casing element e.g. dial, for wrist watch, has electronic device and power supply source that are integrated in casing element in order to form autonomous electronic module, where module is completely independent to movement of wrist watch
CH715440A2 (en) Illuminated display device.
CH709719B1 (en) Illuminated display needle for a portable object such as a watch or measuring instrument.
CH717867A2 (en) Watch box.
CH717017A2 (en) Movable indicator for an analog display device.
CH713361B1 (en) Portable object with decorative effect.
CH713275A1 (en) Non-opaque timepiece component with luminescent effect and its manufacturing process.
CH709720A2 (en) bright display of needles game for portable object such as a watch or a measuring instrument.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED

AC Divisional application: reference to earlier application

Ref document number: 2264554

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: P

Ref document number: 2392977

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: P

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20210407

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: BLANCKAERT, NICOLAS

Inventor name: KALTENRIEDER, ANDRE

Inventor name: KLOPFENSTEIN, FRANCOIS

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20221201

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AC Divisional application: reference to earlier application

Ref document number: 2264554

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: P

Ref document number: 2392977

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: P

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1551404

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20230315

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602009064771

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20230301

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230601

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20230523

Year of fee payment: 15

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20230523

Year of fee payment: 15

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230701

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1551404

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20230301

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230602

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230703

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20230523

Year of fee payment: 15

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20230702

Year of fee payment: 15

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230701

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602009064771

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20230301

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20231204

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20230630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230618

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230618

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230618