Flexible set strap, in particular for a wristwatch, and corresponding production method

Abstract

The invention relates to a flexible strap (1) comprising, in the direction of its thickness: - first and second outer layers (2, 4) rigidly attached to one another; - an intermediate layer (6) arranged between the outer layers (2, 4) and having a tensile strength greater than those of the outer layers (2, 4) in the longitudinal direction of the strap (1), the strap comprising a mounting member (16) for mounting a decorative element (12) on the strap (1), rigidly attached to the intermediate layer (6), the second outer layer (4) being provided with a window (14) arranged opposite the mounting member (16) to accommodate, along at least one portion of the thickness of the second outer layer (4), a decorative element (12) that is to be supported by the mounting member (16).

Description

Description SET FLEXIBLE BRACELET, IN PARTICULAR FOR A WRISTWATCH, AND CORRESPONDING MANUFACTURING METHOD Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a bracelet comprising at least one portion having the general shape of an elongated band comprising, depending on its thickness: - first and second external layers, flexible, integral with one another, and each of which has a substantially continuous external surface, - a flexible intermediate layer, arranged between the first and second external layers and having a tensile strength greater than that of the first and second external layers in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a wristwatch comprising such a bracelet, as well as a method of manufacturing such a bracelet. State of the art

[0003] Bracelets of this type have been known for a long time in the prior art, particularly in connection with wristwatches.

[0004] US Patent 4,573,221 discloses an example of the construction of a strap for a wristwatch meeting the above characteristics. More specifically, this document provides for the production of a strap of this type comprising a rigid attachment member at at least one of its ends. The strap comprises lower and upper outer layers, typically made of leather or imitation leather and made integral with each other by gluing, welding, or sewing. This strap also comprises an intermediate layer intended to make the connection between the rigid attachment member and the strap more robust.

[0005] The use of an interlayer is common in bracelets of this type, mainly to ensure reinforcement of the bracelet, the flexible materials generally used for the external layers typically having the priority objective of offering an attractive aesthetic appearance, and / or good comfort as regards more particularly the lower layer intended to be in contact with the wearer's wrist. Also, these materials often have a tensile strength, particularly along the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, which proves to be insufficient, which explains the presence of the interlayer, typically having a tensile strength greater than that of the external layers.

[0006] Flexible bracelets also have a limited lifespan, generally speaking, depending on the conditions to which they are subjected to wear, in particular depending on their possible exposure to water, sometimes salty, to sweat or other materials likely to accelerate their wear, for example by abrasion, such as sand or hard materials, such as rock. Considering the case of a flexible bracelet for a wristwatch, it will be noted that, most of the time, the simple assembly of the bracelet to a clasp, to allow a user to wear the wristwatch on his wrist, already generates a deformation of the bracelet which can lead to a structural weakness in the region concerned over time.

[0007] It is well known that metal or ceramic bracelets offer greater robustness than flexible bracelets, and therefore a virtually infinite lifespan. The high wear resistance of these bracelets is due in particular to the materials used, mainly metal, whose rigidity typically requires the bracelets to be made by assembling rigid links.

[0008] Generally speaking, the long lifespan of metal bracelets, and sometimes also the noble nature of certain metals used such as gold or platinum, justify that they can serve as a base primarily for the integration of decorative elements, particularly in the case of decorative elements presenting a high cost such as precious stones in particular. Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure a good hold of a precious stone, when it is integrated into any support, in order to prevent it from detaching and being lost at the slightest contact with an obstacle. Thus, precious stones are typically set, using different known techniques, in a way that guarantees this essential good hold.

[0009] The idea of ​​producing a flexible bracelet for a wristwatch, including decorative elements such as precious stones, was presented with a minimum of technical details in patent application EP 3427607 A1. This document describes the integration of a rigid plate between the lower and upper outer layers of a bracelet, and the attachment of supports for precious stones to the rigid plate, for example by welding. The upper outer layer of the bracelet is provided with holes positioned opposite the supports to make the precious stones visible on the top of the bracelet. This application also provides for the possibility of adding one or more intermediate reinforcing layers between the two outer layers to strengthen the multi-layer structure of the corresponding bracelet.

[0010] The teaching of this document is rather schematic and the proposed assembly obviously results in a relatively significant thickness of the bracelet finally obtained, due to the multiplication of layers necessary for the bracelet to meet both the required aesthetic criteria, that is to say that it carries at least one decorative element visible from its upper surface, and for it to have sufficient robustness, in particular sufficient tensile strength in its longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the use of a rigid plate greatly limits the possibilities of implantation of decorative elements along the entire length of the bracelet, despite what is stated in this document. The rigid plate can only have a limited extent to ensure a minimum level of comfort of the bracelet when worn, even if it is also envisaged to use a preformed plate (not flat).Furthermore, the production of a flexible bracelet becomes impossible when the length of the rigid plate increases to allow the installation of decorative elements that are distant from each other.

[0011] Thus, it remains useful to propose a construction allowing the production of a flexible bracelet capable of including at least one decorative element, for example a precious stone, which is comfortable to wear, in particular by having a measured thickness, and which has a good level of robustness, in particular good tensile strength in its longitudinal direction. Disclosure of the invention

[0012] A main object of the present invention is to provide a bracelet, in particular for a wristwatch, of alternative construction to the known constructions of the prior art, more precisely having a general appearance similar to that of standard flexible bracelets, in particular in terms of thickness, as well as its level of tensile strength, while being capable of comprising a decorative element, such as a precious or semi-precious stone for example. Another object of the present invention is to provide such a bracelet whose construction offers great flexibility in terms of design, with regard to the installation of the decorative element(s).

[0013] To this end, the present invention relates more particularly to a bracelet of the type mentioned above, characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one member for mounting a decorative element on the bracelet, integral with the intermediate layer while being arranged at least partially in the thickness of the intermediate layer, and by the fact that the second external layer is provided with at least one through hole arranged opposite the mounting member to define a window intended to house, along at least part of the thickness of the second external layer, a decorative element which would be carried by the mounting member.

[0014] Thanks to these characteristics, it is possible to produce a bracelet of relatively simple and robust construction, ensuring an original design without compromising wearing comfort. Furthermore, it is possible to obtain a flexible bracelet, when precious stones are used, whose value approaches that of the set metal bracelets mentioned above. Advantageously, this solution also makes it possible to enhance the value of flexible bracelets of non-metallic appearance for watches, such as leather bracelets, so as to better harmonize them with high value watch heads for which they may be intended.

[0015] Furthermore, it is easy to recover the gemstones, in this case, when the outer layers are worn and the bracelet needs to be replaced. The gemstones can then be reused in a new bracelet in which they are implanted, preferably by setting.

[0016] Preferably, it can be provided that the interlayer comprises a metal mesh.

[0017] Such a metal mesh provides the required robustness to the flexible bracelet, in particular a high tensile strength in its longitudinal direction, the necessary level of robustness being able to be obtained with a mesh fine enough not to significantly impact the overall thickness of the bracelet.

[0018] It is advantageous to provide that the metal mesh comprises at least one opening having at least one peripheral retaining surface capable of cooperating with a decorative element to directly define the mounting member.

[0019] Generally speaking, it can be provided that the mounting member is made in one piece with the interlayer.

[0020] Alternatively, it is possible to provide for the mounting member to be attached to the intermediate layer, preferably by gluing, welding, crimping or riveting.

[0021] Furthermore, it can also be provided, in general, that the interlayer has a thickness of between 0.5 and 1.5 times the thickness of the first external layer, and that the sum of the thicknesses of the first and second external layers and the thickness of the interlayer is between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0022] Generally, it can be provided that the bracelet according to the present invention comprises at least one additional mounting member, intended to carry an additional decorative element and associated with an additional window of the second external layer.

[0023] The present invention also relates to a bracelet meeting the characteristics which have just been presented and comprising at least one decorative element, preferably a precious or semi-precious stone, mounted on a mounting member and housed in a corresponding window of the second external layer, so as to be visible from the side of the external surface of the second external layer.

[0024] It is advantageous to provide that such a bracelet comprises at least one connecting member intended to cooperate with a fastening member of a watch case.

[0025] The present invention also relates to a wristwatch comprising a case comprising at least one attachment member cooperating with a bracelet according to the above characteristics, so as to make the latter integral with the case.

[0026] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a bracelet meeting the characteristics which have just been set out above, comprising at least one portion having a general shape of an elongated strip, the method comprising the steps consisting of: a) providing a strip of a first flexible material having a high tensile strength, shaped and dimensioned so as to define an intermediate layer intended to be inserted between first and second external layers of the bracelet to be manufactured, the intermediate layer being provided with at least one mounting member carrying or intended to carry a decorative element and arranged at least partially in the thickness of the intermediate layer, b) coating the intermediate layer with first and second external layers,each being made of a flexible material having a tensile strength lower than that of the intermediate layer in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to be manufactured, the second external layer comprising at least one window arranged opposite the mounting member.,

[0027] Advantageously, it can be provided, in the case where the interlayer comprises a metal mesh, that the latter is produced, preferably by an additive manufacturing process, so as to comprise at least one opening having at least one peripheral retaining surface capable of cooperating with a decorative element, and directly defining the mounting member.

[0028] Generally speaking, the mounting member can advantageously be made in one piece with the interlayer.

[0029] In some cases, at least the second outer layer may be made of at least one material selected from the group comprising: textiles, flexible plastics, elastomers, vegetable-based leathers, animal leathers, or synthetic leathers. In this case, the first and second outer layers are assembled to each other after their positioning on either side of the intermediate layer, the second outer layer being arranged against the face of the intermediate layer carrying the mounting member.

[0030] In other cases, it may be provided that the first and second external layers are made of an elastomer, natural or synthetic, by carrying out an operation of overmolding the intermediate layer, in a mold comprising a relief for each window to be produced. Brief description of the drawings

[0031] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description of a preferred embodiment which follows, given with reference to the appended drawings given as non-limiting examples and in which: - figure 1 represents a schematic front view of a bracelet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, making it possible to illustrate the general principle of the latter, - figure 2 represents a schematic perspective view of a part of a bracelet according to a first variant embodiment of the present invention, - figure 3 represents a schematic front view of a part of a bracelet according to a second variant embodiment of the present invention, and - Figure 4 represents a schematic diagram illustrating different steps of a method of manufacturing a bracelet according to an exemplary implementation of the present invention. Method(s) of carrying out the invention

[0032] Figure 1 shows a schematic front view of a bracelet strand 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 1 shows the general principle of the bracelet 1 according to the invention. More specifically, the invention relates to a flexible bracelet 1, comprising at least one portion having the general shape of an elongated band comprising, depending on its thickness: - first and second external layers 2, 4, flexible, integral with one another, and each of which has a substantially continuous external surface, - an intermediate layer 6, also flexible, arranged between the first and second external layers 2, 4 and having a tensile strength greater than that of the first and second external layers 2, 4 in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet 1.

[0034] Generally speaking, the bracelet 1 according to the present invention can be a simple piece of jewelry, or it can be associated with an additional object to allow it to be worn on a user's wrist, for example a watch.

[0035] Generally speaking, it can be provided that the bracelet 1 is reversible or not. In the case of a reversible bracelet, the two external layers 2, 4 advantageously have an attractive aesthetic, which can be either similar or completely different between the two layers 2, 4.

[0036] To facilitate understanding of the invention, the bracelet strand 1 has been shown in Figure 1 in a configuration in which the appearance of the bracelet strand 1 is different depending on the outer layer 2 or 4 that is observed, the first outer layer 2 being shown flat, while the second outer layer 4 is shown being partially detached and folded to make the internal structure of the bracelet strand 1 visible.

[0037] As mentioned earlier, the basic idea behind the present invention is to provide a flexible bracelet capable of include decorative elements, possibly of great value, the integration of which is generally carried out only on link bracelets, which have a longer lifespan than flexible bracelets.

[0038] Thus, more particularly, it can be provided that the first and second external layers 2, 4 are made of any suitable flexible material, which would advantageously be chosen from the group comprising textiles, flexible plastics, elastomers, including in particular natural rubber and silicones, leathers based on vegetable materials, for example apple, pineapple or fruit waste leather, animal leathers, for example cow or calf, goat, crocodile or alligator, ostrich, or even fish, and synthetic leathers.These examples of materials make it possible to ensure that each of the first and second external layers 2, 4 has a substantially continuous external surface, as opposed to metal or ceramic bracelets, which are necessarily made up of separate links, connected to each other in the mass, by means of rods, or on the side of their internal face, defining discontinuous surfaces, and this is generally all the more so as the radius of curvature of the bracelet is small.

[0039] While the first and second outer layers 2, 4 can of course be made from a single material, it is also possible to provide for them to be made from two different materials. Typically, it is possible to provide for the first outer layer 2, the lower one, therefore intended to be placed in contact with the wearer's wrist, to be made from elastomer, given that this material is waterproof and therefore insensitive to liquids such as sweat, while the second outer layer 4, the upper one, can be made from a second different, more aesthetic material, such as leather for example.

[0040] According to the preferred embodiment shown schematically in Figure 1, by way of non-limiting illustration, the bracelet 1 is a bracelet for a wristwatch and consists of two strands, only one of which is shown.

[0041] A first end of the bracelet strand 1 is typically provided with a member for connection to a watch case which has not been illustrated here in a concern for simplification. A person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in implementing a known connecting member adapted to his particular needs, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended set of claims. For example, it is possible to provide that the first end comprises a housing for a telescopic fixing bar intended to cooperate with holes made in the horns of a watch case.

[0042] The second end of the bracelet strand 1 is here provided with holes 8, by way of non-limiting example, intended to cooperate with a pin secured to the other bracelet strand (not shown), to close the bracelet 1 when worn, in a clasp system of the pin buckle type, or with a stud in the case of a clasp of the folding clasp type. Consequently, the holes 8 are provided in the two outer layers 2 and 4, in positions such that they are perfectly aligned two by two when the two outer layers 2 and 4 are made integral with each other, during the manufacture of the bracelet 1. Of course, the presence of the holes 8 is illustrative and optional to ensure proper implementation of the present invention, and the person skilled in the art will also not encounter any particular difficulty in implementing a clasp adapted to his own needs, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the attached set of claims.

[0043] The interlayer 6 according to the present invention must preferably have two specific characteristics: it must advantageously have a certain minimum level of robustness, in particular a tensile strength greater than that of the first and second external layers 2 and 4 and, above all, it must be able to carry at least one support for a decorative element. A high level of robustness of the interlayer 6 makes it possible to guarantee good retention of the decorative element(s) it carries by means of suitable mounting members.

[0044] A person skilled in the art will be able to choose a suitable material for producing the intermediate layer 6 according to his own needs, in particular according to the use of the bracelet 1, or even the country in which it is marketed. Indeed, different standards exist to govern the specific characteristics that bracelets must meet, where applicable, such as the ASTM F2999 standard relating to jewelry, or the ASTM F2923 standard more specifically relating to children's jewelry, or the NF S86-604 standard concerning the breaking strength for wristwatches in the event of traction and / or torsion. Thus, for example, to verify their compliance with this last standard, bracelets are generally subjected to tensile strength tests involving the application of forces of up to 3,500 N.

[0045] Figure 1 illustrates, in a schematic manner, a non-limiting example of embodiment of the intermediate layer 6, extending here inside almost the entire bracelet strand 1, but with a substantially rectangular cutout 10 made in the region located opposite the holes 8 made in the first and second external layers 2, 4. Of course, it is possible to provide as an alternative that the intermediate layer 6 also comprises holes opposite the holes 8 in place of the cutout 10, in particular depending on the choice of material for its production. Those skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in adapting the exact shape of the intermediate layer 6 according to their own needs, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the attached set of claims.

[0046] The bracelet 1 shown schematically in Figure 1 is here intended to carry four decorative elements 12 in such a way that they are visible through the second external layer 4, more precisely, through additional holes made in the latter in locations intended to be positioned opposite the decorative elements 12 when the bracelet 1 is assembled, to define windows 14.

[0047] Mounting members or supports 16 have been shown diagrammatically on the intermediate layer 6 to ensure the mounting of the decorative elements 12 in the desired locations.

[0048] The supports 16 may be of any known type suitable for mounting decorative elements in general, and those skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in choosing a type of support suitable for their own needs, particularly adapted to the type of decorative element to be mounted on the bracelet 1.

[0049] By way of non-limiting example, it may be provided that the supports 16 have the shape of claws to ensure the mounting of decorative elements of the precious or semi-precious stone type, as shown diagrammatically not only in FIG. 1, but also in FIG. 2 illustrating a first variant embodiment of the invention with regard to the placement of supports 16 on the intermediate layer 6.

[0050] Generally, the supports 16 may be added parts assembled on the intermediate layer 6, by implementing different suitable assembly methods. Thus, in particular depending on the nature and structure of the intermediate layer 6, the supports 16 may be crimped, welded or riveted (as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2) on the intermediate layer 6.

[0051] It follows that, advantageously, at least a portion of each support 16 can be arranged as close as possible to, or even within, the thickness of the intermediate layer 6, and therefore then a portion of the decorative element 12 can also be arranged as close as possible to, or even within the thickness of the intermediate layer 6, thus making it possible to limit the size of the bracelet 1 depending on its thickness.

[0052] In the case of the embodiment variant illustrated in Figure 2, the interlayer 6 advantageously has a reduced thickness and can, for example, be made of a material commonly referred to as "tear-resistant" in the field of leather goods, a particularly robust fabric also known as viledon. Those skilled in the art will be able to use other materials with similar properties without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0053] Alternatively, it is possible to use an interlayer 6 produced in the form of a flexible metal mesh, preferably capable of then defining a crimping matrix to provide for the implantation of one or more mounting members 16 for one or more decorative elements.

[0054] Such a metal mesh may be made, for example, of steel, bronze or titanium, by any suitable conventional manufacturing method, including in particular the manufacturing of wires and / or directly of metal meshes by milling and / or grinding and / or laser cutting and / or water jet cutting, etc., and the winding of the wire(s), in an automated or manual manner, to form one or more meshes when a mesh is not manufactured directly by machining. A large number of types of metal meshes are known, and a person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in choosing one that is suitable for his own needs, without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims.As an example, a metal mesh commonly used for making bracelets for wristwatches is based on the Milanese mesh which is illustrated on this web page in addition to other types of mesh, for non-limiting illustration purposes: https: / / www.vivalatina.fr / blogs / blog-bijoux-argent / 18017276-guide-des- mailles-de-chaines-pour-bracelets-et-colliers-en-or-ou-argent.

[0055] In principle, the known links are intended to remain visible in the corresponding bracelet, and not to define a hidden intermediate layer as is the case with the present invention. However, the person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in adapting the known links and defining the best compromise between contained dimensions and maintaining a sufficient level of robustness according to his own needs and constraints, so as to allow the integration of such links in the intermediate layer 6 of the bracelet 1 according to the present invention.

[0056] In the case of the implementation of a metal mesh, supports 16 can either be made directly in the mass of the metal mesh, or crimped in holes or housings provided and adapted in the metal mesh, when they are designed as added parts to be assembled to the metal mesh.

[0057] It may be provided, according to a preferred embodiment, that the metal mesh is produced directly by an additive manufacturing or 3D printing process, preferably by Sintering Laser Melting (SLM), as non-limiting example. In this case also, the supports 16 can be crimped into holes or housings provided and adapted in the metal mesh, when they are designed as added parts to be assembled to the metal mesh, but it is of course more advantageous to provide for their production during the implementation of the additive manufacturing process, as elements directly integrated into the intermediate layer thus obtained.

[0058] When the mounting members 16 are made directly with the metal mesh of the intermediate layer 6, any shape suitable for mounting decorative elements 12 can be provided, in particular depending on the shape of the latter. For example, it is possible to provide that the mounting members 16 are in the form of conventional claws, similar to those typically used for mounting precious or semi-precious stones, or, more generally, in the form of openings, each of which has at least one peripheral retaining surface capable of cooperating with a decorative element 12 to directly define a corresponding mounting member or support.

[0059] Countless variant embodiments are conceivable according to the present invention, in particular the fact that the decorative elements 12 are visible only from one of the faces of the bracelet 1 or, alternatively, that they are visible from both faces. In the latter case, the mounting members 16, when integrated into the metal mesh, could be made to be substantially symmetrical with reference to the mean plane of the metal mesh, such that the decorative elements 12 have similar visible portions on both sides of the metal mesh.Indeed, it is possible, in certain cases, to provide for the bracelet to be reversible, either to present two different faces both decorated with decorative elements - either the same decorative elements 12 visible on both sides, or different decorative elements 12 placed in different places - or to present one face provided with decorative elements and one face without a decorative element, for the sake of discretion for example.

[0060] It is understood that in the case of a bracelet which is not reversible, the interest in providing windows 14 in the two external layers 2 and 4, to make the decorative elements 12 visible on both sides of the bracelet, is relatively limited. Indeed, in this case, only windows 14 provided in the second, upper, external layer 4 seem relevant.

[0061] Furthermore, it is clear that the construction of the bracelet 1 according to the present invention allows great flexibility in the way of distributing the decorative elements 12 over almost the entire surface of the bracelet 1 (on one or two faces, as mentioned in the previous paragraph).

[0062] Indeed, the mounting members 16 can be arranged one by one, individually, as illustrated in relation to figures 1 and 2 or, alternatively, it is possible to provide a crimping die, as mentioned above, comprising a plurality of mounting members 16 arranged in various predefined locations, by default, not all of which are necessarily intended to receive a decorative element 12.

[0063] Such a configuration is shown diagrammatically in Figure 3 illustrating a second preferred embodiment of the interlayer 6, which is particularly advantageous when the latter is produced in the form of a metal mesh.

[0064] The metal mesh may then comprise a plurality of meshes 20, connected to each other by curved metal connecting wires (not visible in FIG. 3) and, in some of which (or in all) are arranged mounting members 16 for decorative elements 12. The meshes 20 are shown here schematically as square-shaped units, for non-limiting illustration purposes, but they may have any other suitable shape, i.e. making it possible to connect a mesh to at least one adjacent mesh and to implant therein a mounting member for a decorative element, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0065] As mentioned earlier, it can be particularly advantageous to use additive manufacturing techniques, or 3D printing, to manufacture the metal mesh and, preferably, to produce the mounting members 16 as elements directly integrated into the metal mesh during the implementation of the additive manufacturing technique.

[0066] Metal meshes of the type illustrated in Figure 3 can thus be manufactured, either directly to the dimensions required to allow their integration into a well-defined bracelet 1, or by large plates intended to be cut later according to the bracelets to be produced subsequently.

[0067] Additive manufacturing methods for obtaining such structures are already known from the state of the art. Patent EP 3403522 B1 describes an example of such a method which notably allows the manufacture of a bracelet. From the additive manufacturing methods already known, the skilled person will be able to produce a metal mesh which can advantageously integrate one or more mounting members 16 for one or more decorative elements 12, according to the teaching of the present invention. It is possible to provide for a plurality of mounting members 16 to be arranged by default in the metal mesh with a constant pitch, to then allow all kinds of different patterns to be created, with decorative elements 12, from the same basic interlayer 6. It will also be possible to provide different types of distribution of the mounting members 16 in the metal mesh depending on the type of pattern desired for the final bracelet.Thus, for example in the case of precious or semi-precious stones, the person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in implanting the mounting members 16 in a suitable manner in its metal mesh, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims, in order to be able to integrate a single stone, a predefined pattern composed of several stones, or even a gradient defined by a snow setting, or even other types of settings such as baguette, rail, pavé, claw, closed or semi-closed settings.

[0068] Generally speaking, the metal mesh may preferably have a limited thickness, more particularly when it is intended to be integrated into a flexible strap for a wristwatch, such that the intermediate layer 6 can advantageously have a thickness of between 0.5 and 1.5 times the thickness of the first external layer 2. Indeed, it is preferable, in general, for a flexible wristwatch strap to have an overall thickness of between 1 mm and 5 mm, in other words for the sum of the thicknesses of the first and second external layers 2, 4 and the thickness of the intermediate layer 6 to be between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0069] Furthermore, it will be possible to advantageously provide a link between the intermediate layer 6 and a possible connecting member to a watch case, to a clasp, or to any other object possibly intended to be inserted between two ends of the bracelet 1, in order to reinforce the general robustness of the bracelet 1. Thus, in the case of the use of a tear-resistant material to produce the intermediate layer 6, it can be provided that the tear-resistant material is wound around possible fixing tubes or rods. In the case of a metal mesh, it can be provided that meshes are wound around possible fixing tubes or rods, or even that the latter are produced in one piece directly with the metal mesh when an additive manufacturing process is implemented to produce the metal mesh.

[0070] Figure 4 represents a schematic diagram illustrating different steps of an example of a method for manufacturing a bracelet 1 according to the present invention, without limitation.

[0071] From top to bottom, the manufacturing steps shown in Figure 4 consist of: - provide a strip of flexible material, having high tensile strength, shaped and sized so as to define all or part of an intermediate layer 6 intended to be inserted between first and second external layers 2, 4 of the bracelet 1 to be manufactured, - provide the intermediate layer 6 with at least one mounting member (not visible here, unless such a mounting member has been integrated directly into the intermediate layer 6 during the manufacture of the latter), carrying or intended to carry a decorative element 12, and possibly also mount a decorative element 12 in the mounting member or in some of the mounting members when there are several, the latter being arranged at least partially in the thickness of the intermediate layer 6, - provide a first strip of flexible material sized so as to define the second, upper, external layer 4 of the bracelet 1, - making a through hole, in the second external layer 4, for each decorative element 12 intended to be visible on the outside of the bracelet 1 to be manufactured, to define one or more windows 14, - position the upper face of the intermediate layer 6, carrying the mounting members, against the second external layer 4 in such a way that each decorative element 12 is housed at least partially in one of the windows 14 of the second external layer 4, - provide a second strip of flexible material sized so as to define the first external layer 2, lower, of the bracelet 1, and position the second strip against the lower face of the intermediate layer 6, - making at least the first and second external layers 2, 4 integral with each other, possibly with the intermediate layer 6, by any known and suitable bracelet assembly technique, for example by sewing as illustrated in figure 4, and / or by gluing or welding.

[0072] It is of course possible to use a single flexible strip to simultaneously produce the two external layers 2 and 4, by folding substantially in the center of the strip after placing the intermediate layer 6.

[0073] In the case of producing a bracelet from natural or synthetic rubber, it is preferable to prepare the intermediate layer 6, with the mounting member(s) 16 and the decorative element(s) 12, before placing it in a mold to proceed with its overmolding by injecting the rubber into the mold. Of course, in this case it is It is preferable that the mold includes a relief for each decorative element 12 intended to be visible on the final bracelet, so that it is not covered by the rubber during the overmolding operation.

[0074] Generally speaking, if it is possible to provide that the decorative element(s) 12 are positioned and sized so as to protrude from the external surface of the bracelet 1, that is to say that they extend outside the windows 14, it remains preferable that they are flush with or set back from the external surface of the bracelet 1. Indeed, if the decorative elements 12 extend outside the windows 14, not only are they exposed to a risk of shocks and could be damaged or even torn off the bracelet 1, but they could also themselves cause damage to other objects (scratch a surface such as a wall or a table, pull threads of clothing in the presence of sharp edges, etc.).

[0075] From the above description, it is understood how it is possible to produce a flexible strap for a wristwatch, which is very simple to construct and assemble, and which offers an excellent level of wearing comfort, while also having a particularly attractive appearance, with countless design possibilities thanks to the use of decorative elements, possibly of high value, whether this strap is reversible or not. Furthermore, more particularly relevant in the case where the decorative elements are of high value, the structure of the flexible strap according to the invention makes it easier to recover the decorative elements, and therefore to recycle them, when the strap is worn and its outer wear layers need to be replaced.In the case of an assembled strap, for example made of leather, the outer layers can be unstitched from each other, or even torn off if they are glued, before the intermediate layer carrying the decorative elements is recovered, playing its role as a single support for all the decorative elements, thus facilitating their handling. In the case of a rubber strap, the outer rubber layers can simply be dissolved when worn, to allow the extraction and recovery of the intermediate layer carrying all the decorative elements. The layer. The interlayer can possibly be reused or replaced depending on its nature and condition when the bracelet is removed.

[0076] The preceding description seeks to describe a particular embodiment by way of non-limiting illustration and the invention is not limited to the implementation of certain particular characteristics which have just been described, in particular the fact that the bracelet illustrated and described is intended for a wristwatch. Furthermore, it would also be possible to have an intermediate layer which would extend only along a portion of a bracelet strand rather than substantially its entire length, or even an intermediate layer provided with members for mounting decorative elements in a single bracelet strand and not in the other. In addition, the bracelet may be subject to additional manufacturing steps, in particular finishing, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.In addition, variants of implementation of the method which has been described are conceivable, such as for example the installation of the decorative element(s) after the assembly of the external layers of the bracelet, by inserting it through the corresponding window. Indeed, depending on the material used to produce the external layer concerned, it is possible to provide that the window has transverse dimensions slightly smaller than those of the decorative element to be inserted, such that the opening of the window deforms during the insertion of the decorative element and takes on its shape. In general, a person skilled in the art will of course be able to adapt this teaching according to his specific needs, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims 1. Bracelet (1) comprising at least one portion having the general shape of an elongated band comprising, depending on its thickness: - first and second external layers (2, 4), flexible, integral with one another, and each of which has a substantially continuous external surface, - a flexible intermediate layer (6), arranged between said first and second outer layers (2, 4) and having a tensile strength greater than that of said first and second outer layers (2, 4) in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet (1), characterized in that it comprises at least one mounting member (16) of a decorative element (12) on the bracelet (1), integral with said intermediate layer (6) while being arranged at least partially in the thickness of said intermediate layer, and in that said second outer layer (4) is provided with at least one through hole arranged opposite said at least one mounting member (16) to define a window (14) intended to house, along at least part of the thickness of said second outer layer (4), a decorative element (12) which would be carried by said at least one mounting member (16).

2. Bracelet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said intermediate layer (6) comprises a metal mesh.

3. Bracelet (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that said metal mesh comprises at least one opening having at least one peripheral retaining surface capable of cooperating with a decorative element (12) to directly define said at least one mounting member (16).

4. Bracelet (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one mounting member (16) is made in one piece with said intermediate layer (6).

5. Bracelet (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said at least one mounting member (16) is attached to said intermediate layer (6), preferably by gluing, welding, crimping or riveting.

6. Bracelet (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said intermediate layer (6) has a thickness of between 0.5 and 1.5 times the thickness of said first external layer (2), and in that the sum of the thicknesses of said first and second external layers (2, 4) and the thickness of said intermediate layer (6) is between 1 mm and 5 mm.

7. Bracelet (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one additional mounting member (16), intended to carry an additional decorative element (12) and associated with an additional window (14) of said second external layer (4).

8. Bracelet (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one decorative element (12), preferably a precious or semi-precious stone, mounted on a mounting member (16) and housed in a corresponding window (14) of said second external layer (4), so as to be visible from the side of the external surface of said second external layer (4).

9. Bracelet (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one connecting member intended to cooperate with an attachment member of a watch case.

10. Wristwatch comprising a case comprising at least one attachment member cooperating with a bracelet (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9 so as to make the latter integral with said case.

11. Method for manufacturing a flexible bracelet (1), comprising at least one portion having a general shape of an elongated strip, characterized in that it comprises the steps consisting of: a) providing a strip of a first flexible material having a high tensile strength, shaped and dimensioned so as to define an intermediate layer (6) intended to be inserted between first and second external layers (2, 4) of the bracelet (1) to be manufactured, said intermediate layer (6) being provided with at least one mounting member (16) carrying or intended to carry a decorative element (12) and arranged at least partially in the thickness of said intermediate layer (6), b) coating said intermediate layer (6) with first and second external layers (2, 4), each being made of a flexible material having a tensile strength lower than that of said intermediate layer (6) in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet (1) to be manufactured, said second external layer (4) comprising at least one window (14) arranged opposite said at least one mounting member (16).

12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that said interlayer (6) comprises a metal mesh, preferably produced by an additive manufacturing process.

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that said metal mesh is manufactured so as to comprise at least one opening having at least one peripheral retaining surface capable of cooperating with a decorative element (12), and directly defining said at least one mounting member (16).

14. Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that said at least one mounting member (16) is made in one piece with said intermediate layer (6).

15. Method according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that at least said second external layer (4) is made of at least one material chosen from the group comprising: textiles, flexible plastics, elastomers, leathers based on vegetable materials, animal leathers, and synthetic leathers, and in that said first and second external layers (2, 4) are assembled to each other after their positioning on either side of said intermediate layer (6), said second external layer (4) being arranged against the face of said intermediate layer (6) carrying said at least one mounting member (16).

16. Method according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that said first and second external layers (2, 4) are made of an elastomer, natural or synthetic, by implementing an overmolding operation of said interlayer (6), in a mold comprising a relief for each window (14) to be produced.

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