EP4020096A1

EP4020096A1 - A timepiece

Info

Publication number: EP4020096A1
Application number: EP21213251.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Armando Legin
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-12-22
Filing date: 2021-12-08
Publication date: 2022-06-29
Also published as: GB2602362A; GB202107437D0; EP4020095A1

Abstract

A timepiece comprising: a base layer, which has first time information presented thereon; a hand which is rotatable with respect to the base layer about a connection point, the hand having a first portion which extends away from the connection point in a first direction, and a second portion which extends away from the connection point in a second, different direction; a second layer which is mounted for rotational motion with respect to the base layer, the second layer having second time information presented thereon; and a drive mechanism which is operable to drive rotation of the second layer with respect to the base layer such that a desired part of the second time information presented on the second layer is aligned with the second portion of the hand.

Description

This invention relates to timepieces.
The standard movement for an analogue watch or clock involves a generally circular face, with an hour hand which is rotationally mounted with respect to the face, and rotates once with respect to the face every twelve hours. In addition, a minute hand is rotationally mounted with respect to the face, about the same or substantially the same axis as the hour hand, and rotates once with respect to the face each hour.
A second hand, which rotates once each minute with respect to the face, may optionally also be provided.
This design has been used in one form or another since the 17th century, and persists today in most analogue watches and clocks.
It is an object of the invention to provide an alternative movement for a watch or clock.
Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention provides a timepiece comprising: a base layer, which has first time information presented thereon; a hand which is rotatable with respect to the base layer about a connection point, the hand having a first portion which extends away from the connection point in a first direction, and a second portion which extends away from the connection point in a second, different direction; a second layer which is mounted for rotational motion with respect to the base layer, the second layer having second time information presented thereon; and a drive mechanism which is operable to drive rotation of the second layer with respect to the base layer such that a desired part of the second time information presented on the second layer is aligned with the second portion of the hand.
Advantageously, the second direction is exactly or substantially opposite to the first direction.
Preferably, the first time information comprises hour time information.
Alternatively, the first time information comprises minute information.
Conveniently, the hand is mounted on a first spindle for rotation with respect to the base layer, and wherein the second layer is mounted for rotation with respect to the base layer on a second spindle which is coaxial or substantially coaxial with respect to the first spindle.
Advantageously, at least a portion of the second layer overlies the first time information and is formed to be transparent or substantially transparent, or is formed to comprise one or more voids or cut-outs in the second layer.
Preferably, the timepiece further comprises an intermediate layer, which is positioned between the base layer and the second layer and is driven to rotate with respect to the base layer.
Conveniently, the intermediate layer comprises a first region which overlies a part of the first time information, wherein the first region is opaque or substantially opaque.
Preferably, the intermediate layer comprises a second region, wherein the second time information overlies the second region, and wherein the second region is opaque or substantially opaque.
Advantageously, the intermediate layer is mounted for rotation about a rotation point, and the intermediate layer defines a portion which extends radially partially, but not fully, around the rotation point, and wherein the first or second region lies within the portion.
Preferably, both the first and second regions are within the portion.
Conveniently, apart from the hand, outside the portion, the second intermediate layer is formed to be transparent or substantially transparent, or is formed to comprise one or more voids or cut-outs in the intermediate layer.
Advantageously, the timepiece further comprises a top layer which overlies the base layer and the second layer and is driven to rotate with respect to the base layer.
Preferably, the top layer comprises a first obscuring portion which obscures part of the first time information.
Conveniently, the top layer further comprises a second obscuring portion which obscures part of the second time information.
Advantageously, the first and second obscuring portions comprise regions of the top layer which are set at different distances from a central point thereof, about which the top layer rotates.
Preferably, the first and second obscuring portions are each substantially part-annular.
Conveniently, the hand is provided as part of the intermediate or top layer.
Advantageously, the hand is separate from the intermediate or top layer.
Preferably, the timepiece further comprises a second hand.
In order that present invention may be more readily understood, embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is an exploded view of components of a timepiece embodying the invention;
Figure 2 shows a view of the components shown in figure 1, when assembled to form a face of the timepiece;
Figure 3 shows a first watch embodying the invention;
Figure 4 shows an intermediate layer of the first watch;
Figure 5 shows a second watch embodying the invention;
Figure 6 shows an intermediate layer of the second watch;
Figure 7 is an exploded view of components of a third timepiece embodying the invention;
Figure 8 shows a top layer of the third timepiece; and
Figure 9 shows a third watch embodying the invention.

With reference firstly to figure 1, an exploded view is shown of components of a watch embodying the present invention. While watches are shown in the figures, it should be understood that the principles disclosed herein may equally apply to a clock or any other suitable timepiece.
Figure 1 shows a base layer 1, which forms a dial of the watch. In this example the base layer 1 comprises a generally circular disc, having an outer edge 2. The base layer 1 may be continuous, in that the disc presents an unbroken upper surface 3. However, this is not essential and parts of the base layer 1 may be transparent (e.g. openworked) to allow parts of the mechanical movement below to be seen. The base layer 1 is preferably planar or substantially planar, although this need not be the case. For aesthetic purposes, for instance, it may be preferable for the base layer to have a concave or dished cross-sectional shape.
As used in this document, the term "disc" should not be interpreted as requiring strict adherence to a mathematical definition of a disc, but may encompass shapes which are elliptical, and/or have a cross-sectional shape which is not planar across at least some of the diameter.
On its upper surface 3, the base layer 1 has an outer circumferential zone 4, which is defined adjacent or close to the outer edge 2. The outer circumferential zone 4 may be defined between the outer edge 2 and an inner circle 5, which is preferably concentric with the outer edge 2.
The upper surface of the outer circumferential zone 4 preferably does not have time information printed or otherwise displayed thereon. The outer circumferential zone 4 may have patterning or decoration thereon, but is preferably of a single colour.
Within the outer circumferential zone 4, first time information 6 is displayed in an inner circumferential zone 23. The inner circumferential zone 23 preferably comprises an annular or substantially annular region, which is within, and preferably adjacent to, the outer circumferential zone 4.
Preferably, the first time information 6 comprises a series of numbers or other symbols which denote hours. In the example shown the first time information 6 comprises numbers between 1 and 12, regularly spaced apart, as is conventional. However, the first time information 6 can take any suitable form, for instance Roman numerals, dots or any other markings, which may or may not include alphanumeric symbols, to indicate the passage of hours.
Preferably the first time information 6 comprises markings which represent a twelve hour period.
Embodiments of the present invention have a preferred colour scheme, comprising two contrasting colours. While this is not essential, the use of a colour scheme of this type will make the timepiece relatively easy to read.
The two colours are preferably contrasting in that the two colours are easy to distinguish from one another when seen together by a human observer. It is not necessary that the contrasting colours are opposite or complementary colours. Any suitable combination of colours which can be sufficiently distinguished by a user may be employed in connection with the present invention.
In the example explained herein, the two colours used will be black and white. Here black is used as the first colour, and white is used as the second colour. The skilled person will realise that these colours could be reversed, however.
The upper surface 3 of the base layer 1 is preferably formed to be of the first colour (i.e. black, in this example). This may be achieved by forming the base layer 1 from a material which is of the first colour, or by painting or otherwise colouring at least the upper surface 3 of the base layer 1 to be of the first colour.
The second time information 6 is preferably presented in the second colour (white, in this example).
The base layer 1 has a central aperture 7, through which a spindle (described in greater detail below) may pass. The aperture 7 is preferably positioned at the centre of the base layer 1, although this need not be the case.
In preferred embodiments of the invention the base layer 1 is mounted fixedly with respect to the timepiece, and does not rotate with respect to the timepiece itself.
Figure 1 also shows an intermediate layer 8. The intermediate layer 8 is preferably of the same size and shape as the base layer 1.
The majority of the intermediate layer 8 is formed from a transparent or substantially transparent material, such as plastic or glass. The intermediate layer 8 has a central aperture 9, which is preferably aligned with the central aperture 7 of the base layer 1, on which the intermediate layer 8 may be mounted for rotation on a suitable spindle.
A sector 10 is defined on the intermediate layer 8. In preferred embodiments, the sector 10 occupies approximately one third of the intermediate layer 8, although this is not essential.
Within the sector 10, in an outer circumferential zone 11, the intermediate layer 8 is opaque or substantially opaque. The outer circumferential zone 11 of the intermediate layer 8 is also preferably of the second colour (white, in this example).
The thickness and/or positioning of the outer circumferential zone 11 of the intermediate layer 8 preferably matches exactly or substantially the thickness of the outer circumferential zone 4 of the base layer 1.
Further, within the sector 10, in an inner circumferential zone 12 which is immediately within the outer circumferential zone 11, the intermediate layer 8 is opaque or substantially opaque, and is preferably of the first colour (in this example, black).
The inner circumferential zone 12 is preferably of at least a thickness such that it will cover, when the base layer and intermediate layers 1, 8 are aligned, the first time information 6 which is immediately thereunder.
The inner circumferential zone 12 may be only as wide as is required to cover the first time information 6. However, in other embodiments it may have a thickness greater than this. In some embodiments, the inner circumferential zone 12 may extend all the way to the central aperture 9.
Outside the sector 10, the intermediate layer 8 is preferably consistently transparent or substantially transparent. However, it is also envisaged that some of the remaining parts of the intermediate layer 8 may have patterns or other markings form thereon, and this is not excluded from the scope of the invention.
A hand 17 is also provided as part of the intermediate layer 8. The hand 17 may take the form of a physical element, which is fixed to the intermediate layer 8, or the hand 17 may be formed integrally with the intermediate layer 8, for instance as a thickened part thereof. As a further possibility the hand 17 may be marked or drawn onto the intermediate layer 8.
Importantly, the hand 17 comprises a single element, which preferably does not have any parts which move with respect to other parts thereof. The hand 17 may be formed from one or more components, and need not comprises a single piece of a material.
In the example shown the hand 17 passes through the mounting point 9 of the intermediate layer 8. If the hand 17 comprises a component which is separate from the material of the intermediate layer 8, the hand 17 may be mounted to a spindle, which is preferably mounted centrally or substantially with respect to the intermediate layer 8.
In the example shown in the figures, the hand 17 comprises a first portion 19, which extends radially outwardly away from the mounting point 9. The hand 17 also comprises a second portion 20, which also extends radially outwardly away from the mounting point 9.
Preferably, the first and second portions 19, 20 are aligned or substantially aligned with one another, so that the two portions 19, 20 of the hand 17 form a linear, straight or substantially straight element.
In the example shown the first portion 19 is relatively short, and the second portion 20 is relatively long, as will be discussed in more detail below.
In the example shown, the hand 17 is arranged with respect to the intermediate layer 8 such that the second portion 20 of the hand lies within the sector 10 of the intermediate layer. More preferably, the second portion 20 of the hand 17 lies at, or substantially, at, the centre of the sector 10, i.e. if the sector extends over 120°, the second portion 20 of the hand 17 lies at the midpoint of this sweep, set at 60° from each of the edges of the sector 10.
In this example the second portion 19 of the hand 17 points in the opposite direction to the first portion 20, i.e. generally away from the sector 10.
Figure 1 also shows a top layer 13. The top layer 13 once again preferably comprises a disc, and is preferably of the same or substantially the same size and shape as the base layer and intermediate layer 1, 8. The top layer 13 once again preferably has a central aperture 14 formed there through, on which the top layer 13 may be mounted on a suitable spindle for rotation.
The top layer 13 is preferably formed from a transparent or substantially transparent material, for instance plastic or glass.
In an outer circumferential zone 15 of the top layer 13, second time information 16 is presented. The second time information 16 preferably takes the form of opaque (or otherwise readily visible) markings which are formed on the transparent or substantially transparent material of the upper layer 13. These markings could be formed by the addition of a paint or dye, or alternatively by features of the transparent or substantially transparent material itself, such as raised features or grooves, if these will be readily visible.
The second time information 16 preferably comprises symbols which represent the passage of minutes. In the example shown, the second time information 16 comprises numbers from 5 to 60, presented in increments of 5. However, once again the second time information may comprise Roman numerals, dots, or any other suitable symbols.
The second time information 16 is preferably presented in the first colour (black, in this example).
In use of the invention, the base, middle and top layers 1, 8, 13 will be closely stacked together, with one or more spindles (not shown) passing therethrough.
The operation of the watch will now be described in greater detail.
As discussed above the base layer 1 preferably remains fixed or substantially fixed in place with respect to the main body of the timepiece. In the example of a watch, the base layer 1 will preferably be fixed in place in relation to the body and strap of the watch.
The first portion 19 of the hand 17 functions as an hour hand. The intermediate layer 8, and therefore the hand 17, is preferably driven to rotate with respect to the base layer 1 every 12 hours, in the same manner as a normal hour hand.
As can be seen most clearly in Figure 2, the length of the first portion 19 of the hand 17 is preferably such that a distal end 21 thereof reaches, or almost reaches, the first time information 6 which is presented on the upper surface 3 of the base layer 1. The first portion 19 therefore indicates hour information readily and clearly to a user.
Because the first and second portions 19, 20 of the hand 17 are fixed in relation to one another, the second portion 20 of the hand 17 is constrained to move around the face in a manner that is linked with the motion of the first portion 19 - i.e. (in this example) moving around the face once every 12 hours, and pointing to the opposite side of the face from the part to which the first portion 19 points.
The top layer 13 is arranged to rotate with respect to the base layer 1. The rotation of the intermediate and top layers 8, 13 occurs at different rates, and this may be achieved in any suitable way. In preferred embodiments, the rotation of these two layers 8, 13 is driven by the same drive component (e.g. shaft or cog), but with a different transmission to give rise to different rates of rotation.
The rotation of the top layer 13 is preferably such that the distal end 22 of the second portion 20 of the hand 17 points to a number (or other symbol, as discussed above) which represents the correct number of minutes past the hour.
In preferred embodiments of the invention, the top layer 13 is driven to rotate with respect to the base layer 1 at exactly, or approximately, 390°/hour. The top layer 13 must rotate more quickly than the intermediate layer 8, because when moving from (say) ten past a first hour to ten past a second, subsequent hour, the second portion 20 of the hand 17 must have performed a full rotation with respect to the base layer 1, plus an additional 30° to account for the fact that the hand 17 will have moved around the face by one hour (i.e. one twelfth of a further rotation, or 30°).
The second portion 20 of the hand 17 therefore functions as a minute hand.
Within the sector 10, the inner circumferential zone 12 of the intermediate layer 8 covers a portion of the first time information 6. This means that, in the vicinity of the distal end 22 of the second portion 20 of the hand, only the second time information 16 is visible. As mentioned above, the sector 10 may occupy around a third of the intermediate layer. However, as long as the inner circumferential zone 12 covers the hour number/symbol nearest to the second portion 20 of the hand 17, the sector 10 may have any width, and may even cover most of the first time information 6.
Figure 2 shows a top view of the face of a watch embodying the invention, with the base, intermediate and top layers 1, 8, 13 arranged for rotation with respect to one another.
In the position shown in figure 2, the time indicated by the watch is around ten past ten. The first portion 19 of the hand 17, which acts as an hour hand, points to a position which is slight past the number 10 of the first time information 6, which is displayed on the base layer 1.
The number 10, as well as some numbers immediately surrounding this number, are visible through a transparent part of the intermediate layer 8.
These numbers are also visible through the transparent material of the top layer 13. As discussed above, the second time information 16 which is presented on the top layer 13 is provided in an outer circumferential zone 15, which does not overlap with the circumferential region in which the first time information 6 is presented on the base layer 1.
The number of the first time information 6 to which the first portion 19 of the hand 17 is pointing is therefore clearly visible to a user of the watch.
The inner circumferential zone 12 of the intermediate layer 8 is, as discussed above, opaque or substantially opaque. This inner circumferential zone 12 is preferably radially aligned with the first time information 6. In the region of the sector 10 of the intermediate layer 8, therefore, the inner circumferential zone 12 thereof covers the first time information 6. As can be seen in figure 2, the numerals 7 to 1 (inclusive) of the first time information 6 can be seen, but the numerals 2 to 6 (inclusive) are covered and obscured by the inner circumferential zone 12 of the intermediate layer 8.
As can also be seen in figure 2, the top layer 13 is rotated with respect to the base layer 1 so that the numeral 10 is substantially aligned with the distal end 22 of the second portion 20 of the hand 17, which functions as a minute hand.
The second time information 16, which is presented on the top layer 13 in the first colour (black, in this example) is easily visible because it is positioned above the outer circumferential zone 11 of the sector 10 of the intermediate layer 8, which is of the second colour (white, in this example). This contrast will allow the second time information 16 to be seen easily by a user of the watch.
In regions of the face which are outside the sector 10, the second time information 16 will be much less readily visible. This is because the second time information 16 will be above the outer circumferential region 4 of the base layer 1, which is of the first colour. Since the second time information 16 and the outer circumferential region 4 of the base layer 1 are both of the first colour, this will make the second time information 16 difficult to read or see in normal use. In this example, outside the sector 10 the second time information 16 will comprises black numerals or other symbols above a black background. A user of the watch may be able to see these symbols in use of the watch, and it is not essential that they are completely hidden or invisible. However, this arrangement of colours ensures that, outside the sector 10, the second time information 16 is much less visible or prominent.
The overall effect of this, as can be seen in figure 2, is that outside the sector 10, the watch face comprises numbers (i.e. the first time information 6) representing hours, and the first portion 19 of the hand 17 acts as an hour hand in the usual manner, pointing to the numerals in the conventional manner. Within the sector 10, the second portion 20 of the hand 17, which functions as a minute hand, points to numbers which represent the minutes past the hour (i.e. the second time information). A user of the watch can therefore clearly see from a glance that the time is around 10 past 10.
It should be noted that, in the example shown in the figures, the numerals representing the hours (i.e. the first time information 6) are presented so that each numeral is oriented so that the lower end thereof points directly towards the centre of the face. Thus, when viewed in the usual orientation, the numeral 12 is the right way up, but the numeral 6 is upside down. Because of the rotation of the top layer 13, which carries the second time information 16 representing the minutes, the numerals of the second time information 16 are likely also to be oriented in this manner.
Some watches will have numerals presented on the face such that, when the face is viewed in the normal orientation, all of the numerals are the right way up. However, for the first time information 6 presented on timepieces embodying the present invention, this is not preferred.
Figure 3 shows a watch 18 embodying the invention. The watch 18 has layers which are constructed as discussed above, aside from the intermediate layer. Figure 4 shows an alternative intermediate layer 24, as used in the watch 18. Unlike the intermediate layer 8 shown in figures 1 and 2, the alternative intermediate layer 24 does not comprise a full disc.
The alternative intermediate layer 24 comprises a pair of arms 25 which extend radially away from a mounting region 26, which includes the central aperture 9, through which a spindle will pass to mount the intermediate layer 24 for rotation. The arms 25 are (in the example shown) radially spaced apart from each other by around 120°, although this need not be the case.
At their distal ends 27, the arms are connected by an arcuate strip 28, which comprises the outer circumferential zone 11 and the inner circumferential zone 12 of the intermediate layer 24.
The hand 17 is also formed as part of the alternative intermediate layer 24. The second portion 20 of the hand 17 extends radially away from the mounting region 16, exactly or approximately mid-way between the two arms 25. The second portion 20 of the hand extends, in this example, to a point which lies at or near the boundary between the inner and outer circumferential zones 11, 12.
The first portion 19 of the hand 17 extends radially away from the mounting zone 26 in the opposite direction to the second portion 20 thereof. As in the examples discussed above, the first portion 19 of the hand 17 is shorter than the second portion 20 of the hand 17.
In between the arms 25 and the first and second portions 19, 20 of the hand 17, however, the alternative intermediate layer 24 comprises cut-out portions.
Returning to figure 3, the watch 18 involves a housing 29 which surrounds the face, and a body which contains the drive mechanism to propel rotation of the intermediate and top layers 8, 13, and the second hand, if one is provided. In preferred embodiments, the watch is a mechanical watch, in which the components are driven by energy which is stored on a mainspring through winding. However, in other embodiments the components may be driven by one or more batteries, or in any other suitable way. The watch 18 comprises a knob 30, which may be used to wind the watch, and may also be used to adjust the time displayed by the watch 18, and optionally further to control other functions of the watch 18, such as a date function.
The watch 18 further comprises a strap 31, as is known in the art. A front window 35 covers the base, intermediate and top layers 13, to protect these components from damage. The front window may be formed from any suitable material, such as sapphire crystal.
In the example shown in figure 3, the watch has a second hand 32. In any of the embodiments of this invention, a second hand may optionally also be provided. It is preferred that the second hand 32 operates as in a conventional watch, i.e. performing one revolution per minute with respect to the watch face, with a zero or start position being aligned with the numeral 12 of the first time information 6. In the example shown in figure 3, an outer timing ring 33 is provided, fixed to the watch housing 29, such that it surrounds the visible parts of the base, intermediate and top layers 1, 8, 13. The timing ring 33 has markings 34 presented thereon to allow the movement of the second hand 32 to be monitored. In the example shown in figure 3, the timing ring 33 has 60 equally-spaced markings 34, with each fifth marking 34 being more prominent than the others. It should be understood, however, that any suitable markings may be presented to allow the progress of the second hand 32 to be tracked.
The embodiments discussed above involve an intermediate layer, which obscures a part of the first time information, and also provides additional contrast in a sector of the face, so that the second time information can be seen more easily. However, the intermediate layer may take several different forms.
The inner circumferential zone 12 may not be fully opaque, or in other examples may be omitted entirely. This will mean that the first time information 6 is not, or is not fully, covered or obscured in the region of the second portion 20 of the hand 17. However, it is envisaged that this may not have too great an effect on the ability of a user to read the part of the second time information 16 that is indicated by the second portion 20 of the hand 17.
The outer circumferential zone 11 of the intermediate layer 8 may also be omitted in examples of the invention. This means that no additional contrast will be provided to allow a user to read the second time information 16. However, in such examples, it is envisaged that the outer circumferential zone 4 of the base layer 1 may be of a colour which contrasts with the colour of the second time information 16. This will mean that the second time information 16 can be read easily by a user around the circumference of the face.
In some embodiments, the intermediate layer 8 may be omitted entirely. In such embodiments the face of the watch may comprise the base and top layers 1, 13 and the hand 17, which is provided as a separate component and not attached to or integrated with a layer. The first portion 19 of the hand 17 will point to the first time information 6, and the second portion 20 of the hand 17 will point to the second time information 16. With suitable colouring of the various components, it is envisaged that the time will be easy to read in these embodiments, and that the watch face will have a stylish and dynamic presentation, with two full circles of numbers present on the face at all times.
In examples where no intermediate layer is provided, the hand 17 may be positioned either between the base layer 1 and the top layer 13 (i.e. in the same position as the intermediate layer), or may be positioned above the top layer 13, which will provide a different effect.
Where an intermediate layer is provided, it need not comprise a full disc, or other shape corresponding fully or approximately to the shape of the base layer 1 and/or the top layer 13. For instance, as shown in figure 4, the intermediate layer may comprise only the sector 10 in which the intermediate layer 8 shown in the examples has the inner and outer circumferential zones 11, 12. It is preferred that the intermediate layer comprises a full disc, or other shape which is exactly or approximately balanced around its central aperture 9, as this will assist with the balance and positioning of the intermediate layer. However, this is not essential.
In some embodiments, the colouring of the first and second portions 19, 20 of the hand 17 may help to indicate which time information that portion of the hand 17 is intended to indicate, in use. For instance, in an example described above, the first time information is presented in white, and the second time information is presented in black. In this example, the first portion 19 of the hand 17, or at least a part of the first portion 19 that aligns with or lies near to the first time information in use, may be of the same or substantially the same colour as the first time information, i.e. white. Similarly, the second portion 20 of the hand 17, or at least a part of the second portion 20 that aligns with or lies near to the second time information in use, may be of the same or substantially the same colour as the second time information, i.e. black.
This may also be true of examples where the intermediate layer is not present.
In the examples discussed above, the top layer 13 is formed from a transparent or substantially transparent material. However, it is not essential that the entirety of the top layer 13 is transparent. It is important that the region of the top layer 13 that overlies the first time information 6 is transparent, so that the first time information 6 can be seen through the top layer 13. However, other regions of the top layer 13 may be opaque. For instance, the outer circumferential zone 15 of the top layer 13, on which the second time information 16 is presented, may be opaque.
In general, any region of a layer which is referred to as being transparent or substantially transparent may fully or partly comprise voids or cut-out portions.
Figure 5 shows a further example of a watch 36 embodying the invention. The features of this watch 36 are generally similar to those of the watch 18 shown in figure 3, except for the configuration of the intermediate and top layers.
The intermediate layer 37 for this example is shown in isolation in figure 6. Like the intermediate layer 24 shown in figure 4, in this example the intermediate layer 36 has a mounting region 26, with arms 25 radiating outwardly therefrom, spaced apart by around 120°. Extending between the distal ends 27 of the arms 25 is an outer circumferential zone 11. In the example shown in figure 5, this outer circumferential zone 11 is white.
In this example the intermediate layer 37 does not have an inner circumferential zone.
An arcuate strip 38 extends between the arms 25, extending from a location part-way along the length of each arm 25. A window 39 is defined between the outer circumferential zone 11 and the arcuate strip 38.
Once again a hand 17 is formed as part of the intermediate layer 37. The first portion 19 of the hand 17 extends from the mounting region 26, in a direction which is exactly or approximately mid-way between the arms 25, and (in the example shown) terminates on or shortly past the arcuate strip 38.
The second portion 20 of the hand 17 extends in the opposite direction to the first portion 19, and is longer than the first portion. Once again, the regions between the arms 25 and the second portion 20 of the hand 17 comprise cut-outs.
Returning to figure 5, the upper layer 13 has numbers (i.e. the second time information) formed thereon in white.
As can be seen from figure 5, the first time information 6 is aligned with the window 39 formed between the outer circumferential zone 11 and arcuate strip 38 of the intermediate layer 37. The first portion 19 of the hand 17 therefore acts as an hour hand, as before, and points to the first time information in a clear fashion.
The arcuate strip 38 serves to define a window through which the first time information 6 can be seen, but the arcuate strip 38 is not essential and can be omitted in other embodiments.
In the region of the first portion 19 of the hand 17, the outer circumferential zone 11 lies exactly or substantially under the second time information (i.e. numbers representing minutes) which is presented on the top layer 13. Since both the outer circumferential zone 11 and the second time information are the same colour (white, in this example), this reduces the prominence of the second time information in this region, thereby reducing the chance of distraction from the first time information.
The distal end of the second portion 20 of the hand 17 again acts as a minute hand, pointing to the second time information 16 presented on the top layer 13.
With reference to figures 7 to 9, a third design embodying the invention is shown.
Figure 7 shows components of the third design, in exploded view. A base layer 40 once again preferably takes the form of a generally circular disc. The base layer 40 has an outer circumferential zone 41 on its upper surface 42. First time information 43, in this example comprising minute information, is printed or otherwise presented in the outer circumferential zone 41 of the base layer 40. The first time information 43 may take any suitable form, but will preferably comprise numbers representing minutes, extending from 0 to 60 around the outer circumferential zone 41. As discussed above, the numbers may appear in 5-minute increments, or in any other suitable form.
A central region 44 of the upper surface 42, within the outer circumferential region 41, is preferably blank or substantially blank, although this may not be the case.
In preferred embodiments the base layer 40 is fixed in place with respect to the body of the watch (or other time piece), and does not rotate during operation of the watch.
A second layer 45 is positioned above the base layer 40, and is mounted for rotation with respect thereto around a central aperture 46. As with previous embodiments, the second layer 45 may be mounted on a spindle (not shown) which passes through, and rotates with respect to, the base layer 40.
The second layer 45 preferably does not, when overlaid on the base layer 40 obscure the outer circumferential zone 41 of the base layer 40. In the example shown in figure 7, the second layer 45 is smaller than the base layer 40, and the outer edge 47 of the second layer lies within the outer circumferential zone 41.
If the second layer is sufficiently large that, when overlaid upon the base layer 40, an outer region of the second layer 45 overlays the outer circumferential zone 41 of the base layer 40, this outer region of the second layer 45 is preferably transparent or substantially transparent, so that the first time information 43 can still be seen.
Second time information, in this example comprising hour information 48, is marked or otherwise presented on an outer circumferential zone 49 of the second layer 45. The second time information preferably takes the form of a series of numbers, extending from 1 to 12, spaced around the outer circumferential zone 49.
A top layer 50 is provided above the second layer 45. The top layer 50 is rotatable with respect to the base layer 40 and second layer 45. As with previous embodiments, the top layer 50 may be mounted for rotation on a spindle (not shown). The top layer 50 may be driven to rotate with respect to the base layer 40 at a different rate than the second layer 45.
The top layer 50 is shown in isolation in figure 8.
The top layer 50 is preferably formed from an opaque or substantially opaque material. The top layer 50 is also preferably formed from a single piece of material, and may for example be formed from a single piece of moulded metal or plastics. It is not essential, however, that the top layer is formed as a single, unitary item.
The top layer 50 is preferably planar or substantially planar.
The top layer 50 comprises an outer ring element 51, which takes the form of a part annulus. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the outer ring element 51 extends around approximately 200°. The thickness (in the radial direction) of the outer ring element 51 is preferably the same or approximately the same as that of the outer circumferential zone 41 of the base layer 40. When the top layer 50 is overlaid on the base layer 40, the outer ring element 51 has an outer diameter which is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the base layer 40. When overlaid on the base layer 40, therefore the outer ring element 51 of the top layer 50 overlies, and obscures, part of the first time information 43.
Where the part-annular shape of the outer ring element 51 terminates, two arms 52 extend inwardly to a central point 53. The central point 53 is also preferably the central point of the part-annular shape of the outer ring element 51.
An inner ring element 54 extends between the arms 52, in the region between the arms 52 that is not occupied by the outer ring element 51. In this embodiment, therefore, it will be understood that the inner ring element 54 extends through around 160°.
The inner ring element 54 preferably has an outer diameter which is the same or approximately the same as that of the middle layer 45. The inner ring element 54 preferably also has a thickness (in the radial direction) which is the same or approximately the same as the outer circumferential region 49 of the second layer 45.
It will therefore be understood that, when the top layer 50 is overlaid on the second layer 45, the inner ring element 54 overlies and obscures part of the second time information 48 which is presented on the second layer 45.
A hand 55 is also formed as part of the top layer 50. In the embodiment shown, the hand 55 is formed as a fixed part of the top layer 50, and does not move or rotate with respect to the other parts of the top layer 50. A first portion 56 of the hand 55 extends away from the central point 53, within the region defined by the outer ring element 51, mid-way or approximately mid-way between the two arms 53 (i.e. the outer ring element 51 extends for around 100° on either side of the first portion 56 of the hand 55). In the embodiment shown, the first portion 56 of the hand 55 terminates in a free end 57 which lies within the inner edge of the outer ring element 51.
A second portion 58 of the hand 55 is fixed to the first portion 56 thereof, and extends away from the central point 53 in the direction which is opposite or substantially opposite to the direction which the first portion 56 extends. The second portion 58 extends over the inner ring portion 54, and terminates in a free end 59. Preferably this free end 59 extends beyond the outer edge of the inner ring portion 54, although this is not essential.
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a watch 60 in accordance with this embodiment. As discussed above, the base layer 40, which includes minute information as the first time information 43, is fixed with respect to the watch face, and does not move or rotate during use.
The top layer 50 rotates so that the free end 59 of the second portion 58 of the hand 55 points to the correct part of the minute information 43. The skilled reader will therefore understand that the hand 55 (and therefore the rest of the top layer 50) rotates once per hour (i.e. 360°/hour).
In the region of the free end 59 of the second portion 58 of the hand 55, the inner ring element 54 of the top layer 50 obscures the hour information 48. The minute information 43 in this region can therefore be read swiftly and easily.
The free end 57 of the first portion 56 of the hand 55 points to the hour information 48. The second layer 45, which carries the hour information 48, rotates so that the second portion 56 of the hand 55 points to the appropriate part of the hour information 48. The skilled reader will therefore understand that, in this embodiment, the second layer 45 rotates with respect to the base layer 40 at 330°/hour. This can be understood since, if the second layer 45 rotated so that the first portion 56 of the hand 55 always pointed to the same part of the hour information 48, the second layer 45 would rotate at 360°/hour. However, in order for the indicated hour information to change correctly, the second layer 45 must rotate more slowly than this, in a way that allows the first portion 56 of the hand 55 to move past the hour information 48 at a rate of 360° in every 12 hours. The second layer 45 therefore needs to rotate more slowly than the top layer 50 by 30°/hour.
As can be seen in figure 9, in the region of the free end 57 of the first portion 56 of the hand 55, the minute information 43 is obscured by the outer ring element 51 of the top layer 50, and the hour information 48 can therefore be read easily and accurately.
In the example shown in figure 9, a second hand 63 is also provided, as in embodiments discussed above. The second hand 63 rotates at a rate of 1 rotation per minute, with respect to the base layer 40. Once again, second markings 61 are provided on the inner edge of a housing 62 which surrounds the face of the watch 60.
In the embodiment shown in figures 7-9, in contrast to previous embodiments described above, a dial displaying minute information is held stationary with respect to the body of the watch, and a further dial displaying hour information rotates during use of the watch. The skilled reader will understand that, in any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, either the hour or the minute information may be presented on a dial which is stationary, and the other of the hour and minute information may be presented on a dial which rotates.
In the embodiments shown in figures 7-9, a top layer (i.e. a layer which is provided on top of the dials which display both the hour and minute information) is provided, to obscure parts of the minutes and/or hour information. This is in contrast to embodiments described above, in which the obscuring function is provided by an intermediate layer, positioned between the dials which display the hour and minute information.
It should be understood that this top layer providing an obscuring function, may be applied to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.
It is also envisaged that both a top layer and an intermediate layer may be provided, each providing an obscuring function for one of the dials displaying the hour and minute information. The skilled reader will readily appreciate how this may be achieved.
In the example shown in figures 7 to 9, the second layer 45 is positioned above the base layer 40. However, it is envisaged that the base layer 40 could be formed as an annulus, with the second layer provided within the annulus, in the same or substantially the same plane as the base layer. Examples of this kind can be more compact in the height direction, and this construction therefore lends itself to a slim, low-profile watch or other timepiece.
The skilled reader will understand that the arrangements shown in the figures are examples of many different possibilities that may be used.
In the examples discussed above, where an intermediate or top layer is provided, the hand is formed as part of the intermediate or top layer. However, it is also envisaged that an intermediate or top layer and a hand may be provided as separate components, which are not directly connected to each other. In such examples, it is envisaged that the hand and the intermediate or top layer will be driven to rotate at the same, or substantially the same, rate with respect to the base layer. It is not essential that the intermediate or top layer and the hand are in the same plane, and these components can be arranged in any suitable way. In such embodiments, for example, an intermediate layer may be positioned underneath the uppermost dial, and the hand may be positioned above the uppermost dial. However, many other configurations are possible.
The examples shown above in relation to figures 1 to 6 relate to watches or other timepieces in which the hour hand performs one full rotation with respect to the face in 12 hours. This is the most common type of timepiece, and it is envisaged that most embodiments of the invention which involve static hour information will be of this kind. Nevertheless, other kinds of timepieces are available, for instance in which the hour hand rotates once in 24 hours, and the skilled reader will readily understand how the invention may be adapted for use with such timepieces.
In the discussion above, the intermediate or top layer, and one of the dials bearing hour or minute information (and optionally also separately the hand), are driven to rotate by one or more spindles which are located generally centrally with respect to the face of the timepiece. However, the invention is not limited to this, and the layers and hand may be driven to rotate in any suitable manner. For instance, either (or both) of the intermediate or top layer and a dial bearing hour or minute information could be driven by a wheel train, which is located outside the layer and engages with teeth on an outer diameter of the layer. The skilled reader will appreciate that many different types of drive mechanism and transmission are possible.
In the above examples, the first and second portions of the hand point in opposite or substantially opposite directions. However, this is not essential. In other embodiments the first and second portions of the hand may be set at a different angle with respect to each other. For instance, the second portion of the hand could be set at 120° or 90° with respect to the first portion. The skilled reader will appreciate how the various components may be driven in such embodiments, so that both portions of the hand point to the correct number of hours and minutes.
It will be understood that the embodiments of the invention provide a stylish and unusual face for a watch or other timepiece, that presents information simply and in a form which is easy to read quickly.
When used in this specification and the claims, the term "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that specified features, steps or integers and included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or compounds.
The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilized for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

A timepiece comprising:
a base layer, which has first time information presented thereon;

a hand which is rotatable with respect to the base layer about a connection point, the hand having a first portion which extends away from the connection point in a first direction, and a second portion which extends away from the connection point in a second, different direction;

a second layer which is mounted for rotational motion with respect to the base layer, the second layer having second time information presented thereon; and

a drive mechanism which is operable to drive rotation of the second layer with respect to the base layer such that a desired part of the second time information presented on the second layer is aligned with the second portion of the hand.
A timepiece according to claim 1, wherein the second direction is exactly or substantially opposite to the first direction.
A timepiece according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first time information comprises hour time information.
A timepiece according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first time information comprises minute information.
A timepiece according to any preceding claim, wherein at least a portion of the second layer overlies the first time information and is formed to be transparent or substantially transparent, or is formed to comprise one or more voids or cut-outs in the second layer.
A timepiece according to any preceding claim further comprising an intermediate layer, which is positioned between the base layer and the second layer and is driven to rotate with respect to the base layer.
A timepiece according to claim 6, wherein the intermediate layer comprises a first region which overlies a part of the first time information, wherein the first region is opaque or substantially opaque, and preferably wherein the intermediate layer comprises a second region, wherein the second time information overlies the second region, and wherein the second region is opaque or substantially opaque.
A timepiece according to claim 7, wherein the intermediate layer is mounted for rotation about a rotation point, and the intermediate layer defines a portion which extends radially partially, but not fully, around the rotation point, and wherein the first or second region lies within the portion, and preferably wherein, apart from the hand, outside the portion, the second intermediate layer is formed to be transparent or substantially transparent, or is formed to comprise one or more voids or cut-outs in the intermediate layer.
A timepiece according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a top layer which overlies the base layer and the second layer and is driven to rotate with respect to the base layer.
A timepiece according to claim 9, wherein the top layer comprises a first obscuring portion which obscures part of the first time information.
A timepiece according to claim 10, wherein the top layer further comprises a second obscuring portion which obscures part of the second time information.
A timepiece according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the first and second obscuring portions comprise regions of the top layer which are set at different distances from a central point thereof, about which the top layer rotates.
A timepiece according to claim 12, wherein the first and second obscuring portions are each substantially part-annular.
A timepiece according to any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the hand is provided as part of the intermediate or top layer.
A timepiece according to any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the hand is separate from the intermediate or top layer.