CLOCK GLASS WITH A DECORATIVE ELEMENT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a watch glass with a decorative element and to a watch with such a watch glass.

[0002] Watch crystals with decorative elements are known, for example, from DE 10 2015 207 049 A1. EP 0 098 240 A1 discloses a watch crystal with a base plate, a second plate, and one or more diamonds. The base plate and the second plate are glued together. The culet of a diamond is glued into a recess in the watch crystal.

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide a watch glass with a decorative element, wherein the decorative element is securely attached to the watch glass.

[0004] This problem is solved by a watch glass having the features of the independent claim. The dependent claims contain advantageous developments and refinements of the invention.

[0005] The watch glass comprises a first glass, a second glass connected to the first glass via a connecting intermediate layer, a watch glass recess formed by a first recess in the first glass and a second recess in the second glass, and a decorative element. The decorative element is inserted into a frame arranged in the watch glass recess. A space in the watch glass recess, defined by the first glass, the second glass, and the frame, is filled with connecting material of the connecting intermediate layer, so that the frame is connected to the first glass and the second glass via the connecting material.

[0006] By providing the first and second lenses, which are connected to each other via the connecting intermediate layer, a stable watch glass is created. In particular, this structure ensures that potential microcracks, which may arise from the formation of the first recess in the first lens and the second recess in the second lens, end at the connecting intermediate layer. Thus, the microcracks in one lens cannot be transferred to the other lens. Furthermore, due to the contact of the lenses with the connecting intermediate layer, which has greater elasticity than the lenses, in the event of a potential impact on the decorative element and / or the frame, the impact energy can be transferred via the connecting intermediate layer to both

[0007] The glasses are distributed and collected by them. This is particularly advantageous if the watch glass has a large decorative element and therefore a correspondingly large watch glass recess.

[0008] The bonding material of the intermediate layer in the space between the first crystal, the second crystal, and the frame contributes significantly to the break resistance of the watch crystal. The reason for this is that the bonding material in this space prevents direct contact between the frame, which can be made of metal, and the watch crystal. This significantly reduces or eliminates the risk of the crystal chipping at the location of the watch crystal recess.

[0009] The connecting intermediate layer and in particular its connecting material in the space of the watch glass recess between the first glass, the second glass and the frame also enables a firm connection of the frame and thus also a firm arrangement of the decorative element on the watch glass.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention offers the advantage of a waterproof watch glass, since adhesion and / or cross-linking effects ensure that the frame adheres to the glasses and the glasses adhere to each other in a waterproof manner.

[0011] In addition, the connecting intermediate layer can compensate for potential surface deviations of the glasses, resulting in a very stable connection between the glasses.

[0012] From the above discussion, it follows that, within the scope of the invention, the connecting intermediate layer advantageously comprises both the connecting material located between opposing surfaces of the lenses and the connecting material located in the space of the watch glass recess between the first lens, the second lens, and the frame. In other words, the connecting material between the opposing surfaces of the lenses and the connecting material in the space already described are advantageously to be understood as a uniform / continuous connecting intermediate layer that serves to connect both the first lens to the second lens and the frame to the lenses.

[0013] Furthermore, the wording that the space of the watch glass recess between the first glass and the second glass is filled with connecting material of the connecting intermediate layer advantageously means that the space is completely filled.

[0014] The wording that the frame is arranged in the watch glass recess means in particular that the frame is positioned in both the first recess and the second recess.

[0015] The setting is in particular a metal setting, such as a gold setting, platinum setting, silver setting or stainless steel setting.

[0016] In the frame, the decorative element is advantageously in direct contact only with air and / or the frame. This means that the decorative element does not directly contact the lenses or the connecting interlayer. Direct contact between two contacting components occurs when no other component or connecting material is provided between the contacting components in the connecting direction.

[0017] Preferably, the frame partially surrounds the decorative element so that a part, in particular an upper part, of the decorative element is not covered by any further component.

[0018] In particular, the decorative element is partially in direct contact with the socket. Preferably, the decorative element is in direct contact with air below a contact area of ​​the decorative element with the socket.

[0019] Advantageously, the first glass is arranged on the second glass.

[0020] For the purposes of the present invention, the first glass refers to the glass that the light first encounters when the watch glass is positioned in a watch. Accordingly, the second glass refers to the glass that faces the interior of a watch case or the dial.

[0021] The first glass and the second glass are preferably each formed as a glass pane. The first glass and the second glass are preferably joined to one another via the connecting intermediate layer.

[0022] In particular, the first glass is made of sapphire glass.

[0023] The connecting intermediate layer is arranged in particular between the first glass and the second glass, in particular between opposite surfaces of the glasses.

[0024] Within the scope of the invention, the surface of the first glass facing the second glass can also be referred to as the underside of the first glass. Accordingly, within the scope of the invention, the surface of the second glass facing the first glass can also be referred to as the top side of the second glass.

[0025] The connecting intermediate layer ensures that the first glass and the second glass are firmly bonded together.

[0026] Preferably, a maximum thickness of the connecting intermediate layer between the first glass and the second glass in the thickness direction of the glasses is smaller than a maximum

[0027] Thickness of the bonding material of the bonding interlayer in the space between the first lens, the second lens and the frame in the thickness direction of the lenses.

[0028] Preferably, a maximum thickness of the connecting intermediate layer between the first glass and the second glass in the thickness direction of the glasses is smaller than a maximum thickness of the connecting material of the connecting intermediate layer in the space between the first glass, the second glass and the frame in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the glasses.

[0029] Preferably, the connecting material in the space between the first lens, the second lens and the frame has a maximum thickness in the thickness direction of the lenses and / or in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the lenses of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 3 mm, further preferably at least 4 mm, particularly preferably at least 5 mm.

[0030] Preferably, the connecting intermediate layer can be formed from an organic or inorganic connecting or adhesive mass or adhesion layer or an elastic film (also: laminating film or composite film, in particular adhesive film).

[0031] For example, the connecting intermediate layer can be formed from an EVA laminating film (ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer laminating film) or a PVB laminating film (polyvinyl butyral laminating film) or a PU laminating film (polyurethane laminating film).

[0032] In particular, the connecting intermediate layer can be made of cast resin. The cast resin can be, for example, a two-component epoxy resin, a UV-curing one-component adhesive, or a cross-linking, highly transparent silicone.

[0033] The connecting intermediate layer is advantageously transparent. Because the connecting intermediate layer is invisible or barely visible, it lends the watch crystal, and thus the watch, a particularly elegant appearance.

[0034] The decorative element is preferably a gemstone, in particular a precious or semiprecious stone, particularly preferably a diamond. In particular, the gemstone can be natural or synthetic.

[0035] For the purposes of the invention, a gemstone is understood to be a polished stone, particularly one with optical properties such as transparency. The gemstone may, in particular, be faceted.

[0036] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, a gemstone is understood in particular as a gemstone which fulfils the following four criteria: 1. Rarity 2. Mohs hardness (gemstone hardness) greater than or equal to 5, preferably greater than or equal to 6, particularly preferably greater than or equal to 7 3. Transparency 4. Refractive index greater than or equal to 1.56, preferably greater than or equal to 1.7

[0037] In particular, diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds are precious stones.

[0038] A diamond advantageously has a Mohs hardness of 10 and a refractive index of 2.42.

[0039] In the present invention, a glass part is not considered a gemstone (semiprecious stone, precious stone, or other gemstone) due to its chemical composition and structure, even if the glass part consists of a material (starting material) that, in its raw state, is classified as a gemstone (semiprecious stone, precious stone, or other gemstone). The glass part can be, for example, quartz glass, although quartz glass is not considered a gemstone, even if quartz (starting material) is a gemstone.

[0040] According to an alternative advantageous embodiment of the watch glass, the decorative element can be a metal inlay, for example a gold inlay.

[0041] If the watch glass has a number of decorative elements, any combination of semi-precious stones, precious stones, other gemstones and metal inlays is possible.

[0042] In particular, an area of ​​the frame may directly contact the first lens and / or the second lens.

[0043] Preferably, the socket is rotationally symmetrical.

[0044] Preferably, the socket has at least one recess formed in a lateral surface of the socket.

[0045] The recess is advantageously filled with connecting material from the connecting intermediate layer. This provides a large amount of connecting material for attaching the frame to the watch glass. In particular, the at least one recess increases the contact area between the frame and the connecting intermediate layer, allowing even large frames or decorative elements to be securely attached to the watch glass.

[0046] In particular, a plurality of previously described recesses are formed in the outer surface of the socket.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one recess can be designed as a depression, in particular a groove. The depression can preferably be circumferential, in particular completely circumferential, i.e., over 360 degrees.

[0048] According to an alternative advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one recess can be designed as a hole.

[0049] The hole can particularly preferably be continuous. Thus, the connecting material in the through hole can be connected to the connecting material in the space of the watch glass recess between the first glass, the second glass, and the outer surface of the frame. Thus, the frame is held not only by connecting material to its outer surface, but also by connecting material that passes through the frame. The latter strengthens the connection of the frame to the watch glass, preventing the frame from detaching from the watch glass recess even in the event of a strong impact on the frame, e.g., if the watch is dropped.

[0050] Particularly if the socket features a plurality of through holes, the holes can preferably overlap in a grid-like pattern. Thus, a grid of connecting material can also be formed.

[0051] According to the invention, the frame comprises a first frame region and a second frame region. The space of the watch glass recess between the first glass, the second glass, the first frame region, and the second frame region is advantageously filled with connecting material.

[0052] According to the invention, the first frame region and / or the second frame region is / are inclined to an axis perpendicular to the lenses.

[0053] "Inclined" advantageously means that the respective frame area does not extend parallel to an axis perpendicular to the lenses.

[0054] The axis perpendicular to the lenses is in particular parallel to the thickness direction of the lenses.

[0055] Particularly preferably, the first mounting area and / or the second mounting area is / are conical.

[0056] The first frame region and the second frame region advantageously define a gap that, in the assembled state, partially or completely coincides with a portion of the space in the watch glass recess between the first glass, the second glass, and the frame. This means that, when the frame is arranged in the watch glass recess, this gap is filled with bonding material of the bonding intermediate layer.

[0057] Preferably, the second frame region has a greater inclination than the first frame region. In other words, the second frame region is preferably more inclined to the axis perpendicular to the lenses than the first frame region.

[0058] Preferably, an angle between the first mounting area and the second mounting area is less than 90 degrees, preferably between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, particularly preferably between 20 degrees and 40 degrees.

[0059] Advantageously, the connecting material of the connecting intermediate layer has a triangular cross-section in the space between the first lens, the second lens, and the frame when viewed perpendicular to the lenses. The cutting plane is defined, in particular, by the thickness direction of the lenses and the direction perpendicular to the thickness direction.

[0060] In particular, the first mounting area faces away from the interior of the watch case when the mounting is arranged in the watch glass recess. The second mounting area, in particular, faces the interior of the case.

[0061] Furthermore, the first socket area has an opening through which the decorative element can be inserted into the socket.

[0062] In particular, both the first recess and the second recess are formed continuously.

[0063] Preferably, the second frame region projects beyond a bottom side of the second glass, in particular by a maximum of 20%, preferably by a maximum of 10%, particularly preferably by a maximum of 5%, of a thickness of the watch glass.

[0064] In the context of the present invention, the thickness of the watch glass corresponds in particular to the sum of the thicknesses of the first glass, the second glass and the connecting intermediate layer in the region between the first glass and the second glass.

[0065] According to an alternative advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second mounting area ends in the watch glass recess. This means that the second mounting area does not protrude beyond the underside of the second glass.

[0066] In particular, an end region of the second frame region can be flush with the underside of the second lens. In this case, the "end region" is understood to mean, in particular, the part of the second frame region that has the greatest distance from the top side of the first lens in the thickness direction of the lenses.

[0067] Since the decorative element protrudes only slightly or not at all beyond the second glass, the watch case can be compact, allowing more space for the movement, hands, and dial. This allows for unobstructed movement of the hands, while also allowing for freedom of design for the dial.

[0068] Preferably, the decorative element has a dimension parallel to the thickness direction of the glass, which amounts to at least 50%, preferably at least 80%, particularly preferably more than 100%, of the thickness of the watch glass. The same preferably also applies to the frame.

[0069] The decorative element may preferably have a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the thickness direction which is at least 1 / 20, preferably at least 1 / 16, particularly preferably at least 1 / 10, of an area of ​​the top side of the first glass.

[0070] If the decorative element is a gemstone, the gemstone preferably has a weight of at least 2 carats, preferably at least 3 carats, preferably at least 4 carats, particularly preferably at least 5 carats. It should be noted that the weight of a gemstone is in particular an indicator of its size. This means that a gemstone of one type (e.g. brilliant-cut diamond) is larger than a gemstone of the same type (also brilliant-cut diamond in the example) which has a lower weight. This means that the cross-sectional area of ​​a gemstone (of the same type) perpendicular to the thickness direction also increases with increasing weight. One carat corresponds to 0.2 grams (2 x 10 -4 < kg).

[0071] A decorative element with the previously specified cross-sectional area or a gemstone with the previously specified weight are to be understood, in particular, as a large decorative element within the scope of the invention. The use of a large decorative element characterizes the appearance of the watch glass.

[0072] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the decorative element can be a gemstone weighing less than 2 carats. For example, the gemstone can have a weight of 0.1 carat, 0.15 carat, 0.5 carat, or 1 carat.

[0073] It is, of course, also possible for the watch crystal to feature multiple decorative elements, particularly multiple gemstones. With such a watch crystal, any combination of decorative elements, particularly gemstones, is possible. For example, a central, particularly round, gemstone weighing 1 carat and two marquise-shaped gemstones weighing 0.15 carats and 0.10 carats, respectively, can be used.

[0074] Preferably, the decorative element protrudes beyond the upper surface of the watch glass. Advantageously, a portion of the decorative element is arranged in the watch glass recess.

[0075] In other words, a first part of the decorative element is preferably arranged in the watch glass recess, wherein a second part of the decorative element protrudes beyond the first glass.

[0076] The watch glass recess is designed particularly in the thickness direction.

[0077] The watch glass recess can preferably be arranged centrally in the watch glass. This means that the first recess is preferably arranged centrally in the first glass, and the second recess is arranged centrally in the second glass. "Central" means that a central axis / center of gravity of the watch glass recess or the respective recess lies on a central axis / center of gravity of the watch glass or the respective glass.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the watch glass recess has the same cross-section across its entire depth. This means that the first recess and the second recess have the same cross-section across their respective depths. The term "cross-section" refers to both a cross-sectional area and a cross-sectional shape. This allows the watch glass recess to be easily manufactured. The depth of the watch glass recess, or of the first recess and the second recess, is the dimension of the corresponding recess in the thickness direction of the glasses.

[0079] For example, the watch glass recess can be cylindrical.

[0080] However, other shapes for the first recess and / or the second recess are also possible. For example, the first recess and / or the second recess can have a rectangular or elliptical cross-section.

[0081] Preferably, the shape of the respective recess corresponds to the shape of the frame, in particular the shape of the first frame region and / or the second frame region, in particular when the first frame region and / or the second frame region is / are in contact with the first glass and / or the second glass.

[0082] According to an alternative advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first recess is preferably bevelled at least partially, completely, ie over 360 degrees, in the circumferential direction on the top and / or bottom of the first glass.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, the second recess may preferably be chamfered at least partially, in particular completely, ie over 360 degrees, in the circumferential direction on the upper side and / or underside of the second glass.

[0084] In particular, the first recess and / or the second recess may have a conical region. The first recess and / or the second recess may preferably have a cylindrical region.

[0085] Particularly preferably, both recesses each have a conical region. Both recesses preferably also have a cylindrical region. Advantageously, the conical regions are arranged on the top side of the respective lens. Accordingly, the cylindrical regions are preferably arranged on the bottom side of the respective lens. Thus, the cylindrical region of the first recess advantageously faces the conical region of the second recess.

[0086] For the purposes of the invention, the top side of the first glass is to be understood as the top side of the watch glass. Accordingly, the bottom side of the second glass is to be understood as the bottom side of the watch glass.

[0087] The first recess and / or the second recess each preferably has / have a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the thickness direction which is at least 1 / 20, preferably at least 1 / 16, particularly preferably at least 1 / 10, of an area of ​​the upper side of the first glass.

[0088] Preferably, the first mounting region lies against the conical region of the first recess, optionally with adhesive in between, and has a complementary, in particular identical, shape to the conical region at the point of contact therewith.

[0089] Preferably, the first mounting area is connected to the conical area of ​​the first recess. In particular, a material connection, particularly preferably an adhesive bond, is provided between the first mounting area and the conical area of ​​the first recess.

[0090] In a corresponding manner, the second mounting region can preferably abut against the cylindrical region of the second recess, optionally with adhesive in between, and have a complementary, in particular identical, shape to the cylindrical region at the point of contact therewith.

[0091] Preferably, the second mounting area is connected to the cylindrical area of ​​the second recess. In particular, a material connection, particularly preferably an adhesive bond, is provided between the second mounting area and the cylindrical area of ​​the first recess.

[0092] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a watch comprising a watch crystal as described above. The watch, in particular, has a case on which the watch crystal is arranged. Preferably, the watch crystal is mounted in the case and glued thereto. The watch crystal is arranged on the case such that the first crystal faces away from an interior of the case. In other words, in the watch, the first crystal is the outer crystal. Accordingly, the second crystal is the inner crystal of the watch.

[0093] The watch is preferably a wristwatch.

[0094] For the production of the watch glass described above, a method is proposed which comprises the following steps: Providing the first glass and the second glass, forming the first recess in the first glass and the second recess in the second glass to form the watch glass recess, arranging a frame, preferably with a decorative element already inserted, in the recess, and connecting the first glass to the second glass via the connecting intermediate layer; in particular after arranging the decorative element in the watch glass recess.

[0095] To provide a decorative element in the form of a gemstone, a rough stone can be cut so that the gemstone has the desired cut shape.

[0096] The first recess and / or the second recess can preferably be formed into the respective glass by means of laser drilling or mechanical drilling. Alternatively, the first recess and / or the second recess can preferably be pressed into the respective glass using heat, wherein the respective glass can be ground, in particular after the pressing process.

[0097] After forming the recesses, the top and / or bottom of the first glass and / or the second glass is / are preferably ground. This allows any potential chipping at the recesses to be removed.

[0098] The joining of the first glass to the second glass via the joining intermediate layer preferably comprises heating the arrangement of the first glass, the second glass and an initial intermediate layer arranged therebetween at a temperature between 110 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, in particular between 130 degrees Celsius and 145 degrees Celsius.

[0099] The starting intermediate layer can preferably be an organic or inorganic connecting or adhesive compound or adhesion layer or an elastic film (also: laminating film or composite film, in particular adhesive film). If a film is used to connect the glasses, it has a recess at the location of the watch glass recess when the film is arranged between the glasses. The cross-section of the recess in the film is selected depending on the cross-section of the watch glass recess at the contact surface between the first glass and the second glass. In particular, the recess in the film and the watch glass recess have the same cross-sectional shape at the previously described location. Furthermore, a cross-sectional area of ​​the recess in the film is preferably greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the watch glass recess at the previously described location.

[0100] In particular, the initial intermediate layer can be made of cast resin. The cast resin can be, for example, a two-component epoxy resin, a UV-curing one-component adhesive, or a cross-linking silicone (one-component or two-component product).

[0101] Furthermore, the bonding of the first glass to the second glass can preferably be carried out under vacuum to remove air from the space between the glasses, and by applying pressure, in particular from 1 bar (inclusive) to 8 bar (inclusive), to the glass assembly to achieve a strong bond between the glasses. Particularly at a pressure of 8 bar, a particularly high clarity or transparency of the connecting intermediate layer can be achieved.

[0102] The step of connecting the first glass to the second glass via the connecting intermediate layer advantageously also includes the step of connecting the frame to the watch glass. In particular, under the temperature and pressure conditions already described, material of the initial intermediate layer flows out of the area between the first glass and the second glass and enters the (free) space of the watch glass recess, which is defined by the first glass, the second glass, and the frame. In other words, material of the initial intermediate layer flows from the area between the first glass and the second glass into the space around the frame. In particular, this space is completely filled with material of the initial intermediate layer.

[0103] The described bonding process creates an airtight connection between the first and second lenses, as well as between the two lenses and the frame. Due to the lack of voids or air bubbles between the frame and the bonding layer, a vacuum effect occurs, whereby the frame is pressed into the watch glass recess by the air pressure exerted on it. If the frame is subjected to mechanical stress, which could cause the frame to wobble in the watch glass recess, the vacuum draws the frame in. The frame is thus held in place not only by the bonding layer, but also by the vacuum effect described above.

[0104] The initial intermediate layer can be a liquid adhesive which then hardens to bond the lenses to each other and the frame to the watch glass.

[0105] The bonding process for joining the first glass to the second glass preferably takes place in an autoclave or a laminator. In the laminator, the assembly comprising the first glass, the second glass, the intermediate starting layer, and the enclosed decorative element is evacuated, in particular in a vacuum bag, while simultaneously applying a pressure of 1 bar from the outside, in particular by the air surrounding the vacuum bag, to the vacuum bag and thus also to the previously described assembly. In the autoclave, in addition to the prevailing vacuum under which the assembly is located, a pressure of greater than 1 bar up to and including 8 bar is applied to the assembly by means of a compressor.

[0106] In the context of the present invention, the joining process for joining the first glass to the second glass can also be referred to as a lamination process.

[0107] In particular, the frame and the watch glass recess are designed such that, when the frame is arranged in the watch glass recess, the frame partially contacts the first glass and / or the second glass.

[0108] Preferably, the first recess has a first recess region and a second recess region. The first and second recess regions of the first recess advantageously have different shapes.

[0109] Accordingly, the second recess can preferably have a first recess region and a second recess region. The first and second recess regions of the second recess advantageously have different shapes.

[0110] Preferably, the first recess region of the first recess can be conical. Preferably, the second recess region of the first recess can be cylindrical.

[0111] Accordingly, the first recess region of the second recess can preferably be conical. Preferably, the second recess region of the second recess can be cylindrical.

[0112] In particular, the first socket area contacts the first, in particular conical, recess area of ​​the first recess and the second socket area contacts the second, in particular cylindrical, recess area of ​​the second recess.

[0113] Preferably, the frame can be materially connected, in particular glued, to the first glass and / or the second glass via their contact surfaces.

[0114] In particular, such a connection is provided between the first socket area and the first, in particular conical, recess area of ​​the first recess and / or between the second socket area and the second, in particular cylindrical, recess area of ​​the second recess.

[0115] Particularly preferably, the frame is integrally connected, in particular glued, to the first lens only at its contact point with the first lens. In particular, such a connection is provided only between the first frame region and the first, in particular conical, recess region of the first recess.

[0116] The described material-to-material connection, in particular adhesive bonding, between the frame and the first glass at their contact surfaces has the advantage that contact of the connecting intermediate layer with the ambient air is avoided in the finished watch glass, which prevents air humidity from reaching the connecting intermediate layer. This ensures the adhesive properties of the connecting intermediate layer in the finished watch glass, even if the connecting intermediate layer is made of a hygroscopic material. Furthermore, it can prevent material from the initial intermediate layer from escaping from the watch glass recess during the bonding of the first glass to the second glass. Furthermore, the described material-to-material connection has the advantage that the frame remains motionless in the watch glass recess during the bonding of the first glass to the second glass.The fixed position of the frame during the bonding process allows for the desired positioning of the frame and thus also of the decorative element in the finished watch crystal. Furthermore, a particularly strong connection of the frame to the watch crystal is ensured.

[0117] As a material for the previously described material-locking connection, a material, in particular an adhesive material, is advantageously used which remains stable between 110 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, in particular between 130 degrees Celsius and 145 degrees Celsius, is insensitive to water and does not react with the material of the initial intermediate layer.

[0118] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, instead of an adhesive bond at the contact point between the first glass and the frame, in particular between the first glass or the first recess region of the first recess and the first frame region, a sealing element can preferably be provided.

[0119] Accordingly, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, instead of an adhesive bond at the contact point between the second glass and the frame, in particular between the second glass or the first recess region of the first recess and the second frame region, a sealing element can preferably be provided.

[0120] For example, a two-component epoxy resin or a waterproof UV adhesive can be used.

[0121] To prepare the finished watch glass, material from the initial interlayer that has potentially flowed out of the space between the glasses is removed.

[0122] The finished watch glass can then be inserted into the watch case, in particular glued to it on the circumference.

[0123] Further details, advantages, and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. Identical or functionally identical components are provided with the same reference numerals. It shows: Fig. 1 is a schematic plan view of a watch according to the invention, which comprises a watch glass according to a first embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a schematic sectional view of the watch glass according to the Fig. 1 marked section AA, Fig. 3 a schematic sectional view of a first glass of the watch glass from Fig. 2 , Fig. 4 a top view of the first glass from Fig. 3 , Fig. 5 a schematic sectional view of a second glass of the watch glass from Fig. 2, Fig. 6 a top view of the second glass from Fig. 5 , and Fig. 7 is a schematic sectional view of a watch glass according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] The following is based on the Figures 1 to 6 a watch 100 with a watch glass 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention and a manufacturing method of the watch glass 10 or the watch 100 are described in detail.

[0125] As from Figure 1 As can be seen, the watch 100 has a housing 11 in which the watch glass 10 is arranged. In particular, the watch glass 10 is glued to the housing 11 around its circumference. The housing 11 and the watch glass 10 are circular, but can have any other shape, such as a rectangle, a polygon, etc.

[0126] The watch 100, which is in particular a wristwatch, further comprises a dial 12, which is formed, for example, as gold leaf, three hands 13 for indicating the hours, minutes, and seconds, and two connectors for connecting the case 11 to a bracelet 16. The dial 12 and the hands 13 are arranged in an interior space 15 of the case.

[0127] Out of Figures 1 and 2 It also emerges that a decorative element 3 is provided on the watch glass 10. In particular, the decorative element 3 is a diamond arranged in the center of the watch glass 10. This means that the central axis 301 of the decorative element 3 coincides with the central axis 101 of the watch glass 10. However, a different arrangement of the decorative element 3, in particular a non-centered arrangement of the decorative element 3 with respect to the watch glass 10, is also possible.

[0128] The decorative element 3 preferably has a weight of at least 2 carats, preferably at least 3 carats, preferably at least 4 carats, particularly preferably at least 5 carats. Due to its size, the decorative element 3 characterizes the appearance of the watch glass 10 and thus also of the watch 100. For arranging the decorative element 3 on the watch glass 10, a mount 6 is provided, in which the decorative element 3 is received. The mount 6 is in particular a metal mount, such as a gold mount, platinum mount, silver mount, or stainless steel mount.

[0129] Out of Figure 2 It can be seen that the watch glass 10 comprises a first glass 1 and a second glass 2, which are designed in particular as flat glass panes. However, it is also possible to design the glasses 1, 2 curved with the same curvature at their contact surfaces.

[0130] The first pane 1 and the second pane 2 lie on top of each other and are connected to each other via a connecting intermediate layer 5. The material bond by means of the intermediate layer 5 creates an airtight and watertight connection between the panes 1 and 2.

[0131] In particular, the connecting intermediate layer 5 is formed from a transparent laminating film. For example, the connecting intermediate layer 5 can be formed from an EVA laminating film or a PVB laminating film.

[0132] The first glass 1 faces away from an interior space 15 of the housing 11, and the second glass 2 faces the interior space 15 of the housing 12. Thus, the first glass 1 is the glass that the light hits first. Within the scope of the invention, the first glass 1 can also be referred to as the upper glass or outer glass, and the second glass can also be referred to as the lower glass or inner glass.

[0133] Advantageously, the first glass 1 is made of sapphire glass, which is highly scratch-resistant. The second glass 2 is made of mineral glass. However, other materials, such as other types of glass or plastic, are also possible for both the first glass 1 and the second glass 2.

[0134] A first recess 41 is formed in the first glass 1, and a second recess 42 is formed in the second glass 2. The first recess 41 and the second recess 42, both of which are continuous, define a watch glass recess 4 in the watch glass 10. A central axis 43 of the watch glass recess 4 lies on the central axis 101 of the watch glass 10.

[0135] The frame 6 is inserted into the watch glass recess 4 or into the first recess 41 and the second recess 42.

[0136] A space 40 of the watch glass recess 4 is defined by the first glass 1, the second glass 2, and the frame 6. The space 40 is completely filled with connecting material 50 of the connecting intermediate layer 5, so that the frame 6 is connected to the first glass 1 and the second glass 2 via the connecting material 50.

[0137] The connecting intermediate layer 5 comprises both the connecting material 51 located between the opposing surfaces 19, 29 of the glasses 1, 2, and the connecting material 50 located in the space 40 of the watch glass recess 4. In other words, the connecting material 50 in the space 40, together with the connecting material 51 between the opposing surfaces 19, 29 of the glasses 1, 2, forms the connecting intermediate layer 5, which is continuously formed.

[0138] Thus, the connecting intermediate layer 5 serves to connect the first lens 1 with the second lens 2 and the frame 6 with both lenses 1, 2.

[0139] The mounting 6, which is rotationally symmetrical, partially surrounds the decorative element 3, so that an upper part of the decorative element 3 is not covered by any other component and is in direct contact with air. A panel 30 and some of the upper facets 31 of the diamond-shaped decorative element 3 are in direct contact with air. This allows light to strike the decorative element 3 directly.

[0140] To fix the decorative element 3 in the socket 6, the socket 6 has a flange 60. However, it is also possible for the decorative element 3 to be glued into the socket 6 or connected to it in another way.

[0141] Preferably, the frame 6 has a first frame region 61 and a second frame region 62. The space 40 of the watch glass recess 4 is defined by the first glass 1, the second glass 2, the first frame region 61, and the second frame region 62.

[0142] In particular, the first mounting area 61 faces away from the interior 15 of the housing 11 and the dial 12 of the watch 100 compared to the second mounting area 62. Accordingly, the second mounting area 62 faces the interior 15 and the dial 12 compared to the first mounting area 61.

[0143] The first frame region 61 and the second frame region 62 are each inclined relative to an axis 102 perpendicular to the lenses 1, 2. In this exemplary embodiment, the axis 102 perpendicular to the lenses 1, 2 coincides with the central axis 101 of the watch glass 10 and is parallel to the thickness direction 500 of the lenses 1, 2.

[0144] The second frame region 62 has a greater inclination than the first frame region 61. In other words, the second frame region 62 is more inclined to the axis 102 perpendicular to the lenses 1, 2 than the first frame region 61.

[0145] In particular, the first socket area 61 and the second socket area 62 are conical, with the socket areas 61, 62 having a common end area 63. However, other shapes for the first socket area 61 and / or the second socket area 62 are also possible.

[0146] The socket 6 or the first socket area 61 further has an opening 64 through which the decorative element 3 is inserted into the socket 6.

[0147] The first socket area 61 and the second socket area 62 define an intermediate space 67 which, in the assembled state of the socket 6, is filled with the connecting material 50 of the connecting intermediate layer 5.

[0148] Out of Figure 2 It can be seen that a maximum thickness 507 of the connecting intermediate layer 5 between the first glass 1 and the second glass 2 in the thickness direction 500 of the glasses 1, 2 is smaller than a maximum thickness 506 of the connecting material 50 of the connecting intermediate layer 5 in the space 40 between the first glass 1, the second glass 2 and the frame 6 in the thickness direction of the glasses 1, 2.

[0149] Furthermore, a maximum thickness 507 of the connecting intermediate layer 5 between the first glass 1 and the second glass 2 in the thickness direction 500 of the glasses 1, 2 is smaller than a maximum thickness 508 of the connecting material 50 of the connecting intermediate layer 5 in the space 40 between the first glass 1, the second glass 2 and the frame 6 in a direction 501 perpendicular to the thickness direction 500 of the glasses 1, 2.

[0150] For example, the maximum thickness 507 can be up to 0.4 mm, preferably up to 0.5 mm. The maximum thickness 508 can be, for example, 2 mm.

[0151] Furthermore, the connecting material 50 of the connecting intermediate layer 5 has a triangular cross-section in the space 40 on a sectional plane perpendicular to the upper side 18 of the watch glass 10. The sectional plane is defined by the thickness direction 500 of the glasses 1, 2 and a direction 501 perpendicular to the thickness direction 500.

[0152] In this exemplary embodiment, the second frame region 62 projects beyond the underside 28 of the second glass 2, in particular by a maximum of 20%, preferably by a maximum of 10%, particularly preferably by a maximum of 5%, of a thickness 505 of the watch glass 10.

[0153] The thickness 505 of the watch glass 10 corresponds to the sum of the thickness 502 of the first glass 1, the thickness 503 of the second glass 2 and the thickness 504 of the connecting intermediate layer 5 in the area between the first glass 1 and the second glass 2 (measured at the same point).

[0154] However, it is also possible for the second mounting area 62 to end in the watch glass recess 4. In particular, the second mounting area 62 can be flush with the underside 28 of the second glass 2.

[0155] Like the Figures 2 , 3 and 4 As can be seen, the first recess 41 has a conical recess area 410 (first recess area of ​​the first recess 41) and a cylindrical recess area 411 (second recess area of ​​the first recess 41). Accordingly, according to the Figures 2 , 5 and 6The second recess 42 has a conical recess region 420 (first recess region of the second recess 42) and a cylindrical recess region 421 (second recess region of the second recess 42). However, other shapes for the first recess 41 and / or the second recess 42, in particular for the recess regions 410, 411, 420, 422, are also possible.

[0156] The conical recess region 410 of the first recess 41 is arranged on the top side 18 of the first glass 1, with the conical recess region 420 of the second recess 42 being arranged on the top side 29 of the second glass 2. Correspondingly, the cylindrical recess region 411 is arranged on the bottom side 19 of the first glass 1, with the cylindrical recess region 421 being arranged on the bottom side 29 of the second glass 2.

[0157] In particular, the conical recess region 410 of the first recess 41 extends over the upper half of the depth of the first recess 1, while the cylindrical recess region 411 of the first recess 41 extends over the lower half of the depth of the first recess 41. The same applies to the conical recess region 420 and the cylindrical recess region 421 of the second recess 42.

[0158] To form the conical recess regions 410, 420, the first recess 41 and the second recess 42 on the upper sides 18, 28 of the glasses 1, 2 are bevelled completely in the circumferential direction, ie over 360 degrees.

[0159] As from Figure 2As can be seen, the first mounting region 61 rests against the conical recess region 410 of the first recess 41 and, at their contact point, has the same shape as the conical recess region 410. In particular, the first mounting region 61 is glued to the conical recess region 410 of the first recess 41.

[0160] In a corresponding manner, the second mounting region 62 contacts the cylindrical recess region 421 of the second recess 42 and has the same shape as the cylindrical recess region 421 at their contact point. In particular, the second mounting region 62 is adhesively bonded to the cylindrical recess region 421 of the second recess 42.

[0161] Thus, the space 40 of the watch glass recess 4 is defined in particular by the cylindrical recess region 411 of the first recess 41, the first frame region 61, the second frame region 62 and the cylindrical recess region 421 of the second recess 42.

[0162] The decorative element 3 protrudes beyond an upper side 18 of the watch glass 10 and is partially arranged in the watch glass recess 4. In particular, the decorative element 3 has a dimension 300 parallel to the thickness direction 500 of the glasses 1, 2, which amounts to more than 100% of the thickness 505 of the watch glass 10. However, the decorative element 3 can have a dimension 300 parallel to the thickness direction 500 of the glasses 1, 2, which is smaller than the thickness 505 of the watch glass 10. The decorative element 3 can be arranged such that it still protrudes beyond the upper side 18 of the watch glass 10.

[0163] As from Figures 1 and 2As can be seen, the decorative element 3 further has a maximum cross-sectional area 302 in the direction 501 perpendicular to the thickness direction 500. The maximum cross-sectional area 302 can be at least 1 / 20, preferably at least 1 / 16, particularly preferably at least 1 / 10, of the area of ​​the upper side 18 of the first glass 1.

[0164] Accordingly, the watch glass recess 4, in particular the first recess 41, has a cross-sectional area 400, in particular on the upper side 18 of the first glass 1 in a direction 501 perpendicular to the thickness direction 500, which is at least 1 / 20, preferably at least 1 / 16, particularly preferably at least 1 / 10, of the area of ​​the upper side 18 of the first glass 1.

[0165] According to Figure 2Optionally, a recess 65 (shown in dashed lines) can be formed in a lateral surface 66 of the frame 6. In particular, the recess 65 can be a completely circumferential groove. In this embodiment of the frame 6, the groove is advantageously filled with connecting material of the connecting intermediate layer 5 and connected to the connecting material 50 in the space 40 between the first glass 1, the second glass 2, and the frame 6. The recess 65 provides an additional contact surface between the frame 6 and the connecting intermediate layer 5, so that an even stronger connection of the frame 6 to the watch glass 10 can be achieved.

[0166] To produce the previously described watch glass 1, the first glass 1 and the second glass 2, the decorative element 3 and the frame 6 are first provided.

[0167] The first recess 41 and the second recess 42 can preferably be formed by means of laser drilling or mechanical drilling or water jet cutting or ultrasonic drilling or pressing into the respective glass 1, 2.

[0168] After forming the recesses 41, 42, the top surfaces 18, 29 and the bottom surfaces 19, 28 of the lenses 1, 2 are ground. This allows any potential chipping in the recesses 41, 42 to be removed.

[0169] To provide the decorative element 3 formed as a diamond, a rough diamond is cut so that the diamond has the desired cut shape.

[0170] The decorative element 3 is then set into the frame.

[0171] A starting intermediate layer, designed as a laminating film, is placed on the second glass 2. The laminating film is provided with a recess formed in the laminating film such that, when the laminating film is arranged on the second glass 2, it is positioned at the location of the second recess 42.

[0172] Thereafter, the first glass 1 is placed on the second glass 2 or the laminating film and the frame 6 with the decorative element 3 is inserted into the recess formed by the first recess 41, the recess of the laminating film and the second recess 42.

[0173] First, the first socket area 61 is glued to the conical recess area 410 of the first recess 41.

[0174] Finally, the first glass 1 and the second glass 2 are connected together.

[0175] However, it is possible that the first glass 1 can be connected to the second glass 2 before the first frame area 61 is bonded to the conical recess area 410 of the first recess 41.

[0176] To connect the first glass 1 to the second glass 2, air is first removed from the space between the glasses 1, 2 so that a vacuum exists in the space between the glasses 1, 2.

[0177] The assembly of the first glass 1, the second glass 2, and the laminating film arranged between them is heated to a temperature between 110 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, in particular between 130 degrees Celsius and 145 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, pressure is applied to the assembly of the glasses 1 and 2.

[0178] Heating causes the laminating film to become doughy or liquid. Due to this, and the pressure exerted on the assembly of the first glass 1 and the second glass 2, the material of the laminating film flows into the space 40 defined by the first glass 1, the second glass 2, the first frame area 61, and the second frame area 62, and completely fills it.

[0179] If the frame 6 has the previously described groove 65, the material of the laminating film also flows into the groove 65.

[0180] After the material of the laminating film has been cooled, a firm bond is achieved between the first lens 1 and the second lens 2, as well as between the frame 6 and the lenses 1 and 2. The initial intermediate layer formed as a laminating film has become the connecting intermediate layer 5 in the finished watch glass 10.

[0181] If material of the laminating film has flowed out of the space between the first glass 1 and the second glass 2 during the bonding process, this material is removed to produce the finished watch glass 10.

[0182] The finished watch glass 10 is then inserted into the case 11 of the watch 100 and glued to it over its circumference.

[0183] By the described method, the frame 6 is surrounded by the connecting material of the connecting intermediate layer 5, thus providing an "anchor" that securely holds the frame 6 to the first glass 1 and the second glass 2 and transmits impact energy to both glasses 1, 2 in the event of a potential impact of the frame 6. This prevents the frame 6 from detaching from the watch glass 10 and thus falling out of the watch glass recess 4. This "anchor," formed by the connecting material 50 in the space 40 between the first glass 1, the second glass 2, and the frame 6, can hold the frame 6 firmly in the watch glass recess 6, even if it were to break away from the connecting material 51 of the connecting intermediate layer 5 between the first glass 1 and the second glass 2.

[0184] In Figure 7 a watch glass 10 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0185] The structure of the watch glass 10 according to the second embodiment basically corresponds to that of the watch glass 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0186] However, in contrast to the watch glass 10 according to the first embodiment, the watch glass 10 according to the second embodiment has an annular sealing element 7 instead of an adhesive bond between the first mounting region 61 and the conical recess region 410 of the first recess 41.

[0187] In this case, the step of attaching the sealing element 7 to the first lens 1 preferably takes place before connecting the first lens 1 to the second lens 2. The connecting process between the lenses 1, 2 advantageously pushes the sealing element 7 through the frame 6.

[0188] Thus, a water- and airtight arrangement of the frame 6 on the first lens 1 is achieved. This prevents the connecting intermediate layer 5 from coming into contact with water or atmospheric moisture.

[0189] In addition to the above written description of the invention, for its supplementary disclosure, reference is hereby explicitly made to the graphic representation of the invention in the Fig. 1 to 7 Reference is made. List of reference symbols

[0190] 1First glass 2Second glass 3Decorative element 4Clock glass recess 5Connecting intermediate layer 6Frame 7Sealing element 10Clock glass 11Case 12Dial 13Hands 14Connection for a bracelet 15Interior 16Bracelet 18Top 19Surface 28Bottom 29Surface 30Table 31Top facet 40Space 41First recess 42Second recess 43Central axis 50Gap 60Flanging 61First frame area 62Second frame area 63End area 64Opening 65Recess 66Surface 67Gap 100Clock 101Central axis 102Axis 300Dimension 301Central axis 302Cross-sectional area 400Cross-sectional area 410Conical recess area 411Cylindrical recess area 420Conical recess area 421Cylindrical recess area 500Thickness direction 501Direction perpendicular to the thickness direction 502Thickness 503Thickness 504Thickness 505Thickness 506Thickness 507Thickness 508Thickness

Claims

1. A watch glass (10) comprising: • a first glass (1), • a second glass (2) connected to the first glass (1) via a connecting intermediate layer (5), • a decorative member (3) inserted into a frame (6), and • a watch glass recess (4) formed by a first recess (41) in the first glass (1) and a second recess (42) in the second glass (2), • wherein the frame (6) is disposed in the watch glass recess (4), • wherein a space (40) of the watch glass recess (4) defined by the first glass (1), the second glass (2), and the frame (6) is filled with connecting material (50) of the connecting intermediate layer (5) so that the frame (6) is connected to the first glass (1) and the second glass (2) via the connecting material (50), wherein the frame (6) comprises a first frame portion (61) and a second frame portion (62), wherein at least one of the first frame portion (6) and the second frame portion (61) is inclined to an axis (102) perpendicular to the glasses (1, 2).

2. The watch glass (10) according to claim 1, wherein the frame (6) comprises at least one recess (65) formed in a lateral surface (66) of the frame (6).

3. The watch glass (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second frame portion (62) has a greater inclination than the first frame portion (61).

4. The watch glass (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second frame portion (62) protrudes beyond an underside (28) of the second glass (2), in particular by at most 20%, preferably by at most 10%, particularly preferably by at most 5%, of a thickness (505) of the watch glass (10).

5. The watch glass (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first recess (41) and in particular also the second recess (42) are formed continuously.

6. The watch glass (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the decorative member (3) has a dimension (300) which is at least 50%, preferably at least 80%, particularly preferably over 100%, of a thickness (505) of the watch glass (10), parallel to an axis perpendicular to the glasses (1, 2).

7. The watch glass (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the decorative member (3) protrudes beyond an upper side (18) of the watch glass (10).

8. The watch glass (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first recess (41) and / or the second recess (42) each comprise a conical recess portion (410, 420) and a cylindrical recess portion (411, 421).

9. The watch glass (10) according to claim 8, wherein the first frame portion (61) abuts the conical recess portion (410) of the first recess (41), optionally with an interposed adhesive bond or an interposed sealing member, and in particular at the contact point with the conical recess portion (410) has a shape complementary thereto, and / or wherein the second frame portion (62) abuts the cylindrical recess portion (421) of the second recess (42), optionally with an interposed adhesive bond or an interposed sealing member, and in particular at the contact point with the cylindrical recess portion (421) has a shape complementary thereto.

10. A watch (100) comprising a watch glass (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.