Spring ring for a watch case and method for manufacturing a spring ring

Abstract

The present invention relates to a spring ring for a watch case (1000), the watch case (1000) comprising: - a middle (2), - a bezel (1) arranged to rotate about an axis (Z), the bezel (1) comprising a circular track (11) having a first diameter, and a toothset (12) having a second diameter that differs from the first diameter, the spring ring (4) being arranged to be fastened to the middle (2), the spring ring (4) comprising: - at least one first leaf spring (41) disposed at a first diameter of the spring ring (4), and arranged to cooperate with the circular track (11), in order to create a substantially constant rotation torque for the bezel (1), - at least one second leaf spring (42) disposed at a second diameter of the spring ring (4), and arranged to cooperate with the toothset (12), in order to produce a click during the rotation of the bezel (4).

Description

Spring ring for watch case and method of manufacturing a spring ring Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a spring ring for a watch case and a method of manufacturing a spring ring. State of the art

[0002] Many watches include a watch case with a rotating bezel, i.e., one arranged to rotate around an axis. Typically, this axis is perpendicular to the crystal or dial of the watch movement. Typically, this axis passes through the center of the crystal or dial. The bezel may carry indications that the user can place in a chosen angular position. A bezel may be used in a watch for various reasons, for example, to quickly determine the time in a second time zone; to indicate the duration of a dive, etc.

[0003] Watch cases, including watch cases offered by the applicant, generally comprise: - a build, - a bezel arranged to rotate around an axis, the bezel comprising a toothing, - a spring ring arranged to be fixed to the caseband, the spring ring comprising four spring blades arranged on a first diameter of the spring ring, and arranged to cooperate with the teeth, in order to produce a click when the bezel is rotated.

[0004] In these watch cases, a spring (confusing arm spring or polygonal spring of round section, for example a pan spring) cooperating with both the bezel and the caseband allows the axial retention of the bezel, namely the retention of the bezel along a direction perpendicular to a principal plane of the bezel.

[0005] This solution has some disadvantages: it is difficult to guarantee synchronicity of the four leaf springs when they cooperate with the teeth of the bezel, which increases the noise produced when the bezel rotates. In addition, the rotation torque of the bezel is not constant, which accentuates the play and noise: in particular, there are variations in the rotation torque from a zero value to a peak value greater than 1 N cm, which implies a feeling of play and noise for the user?

[0006] Finally, in this solution the bezel must have a certain width in order to cooperate with the axial retaining spring, which does not allow the diameter of the dial to be maximized.

[0007] Document US9395694 relates to a watch with a rotating bezel and a spring ring comprising two first leaf springs arranged to urge the rotating bezel towards the front face of the watch, and two second leaf springs which engage and disengage the ratchet sections as the rotating bezel is rotated and allow the rotating bezel to rotate in only one direction.

[0008] Document EP2672332 relates to a rotating bezel system, comprising a spring ring comprising at least one zone having a maximum radius and at least one zone having a minimum radius. The spring ring also has at one of its ends a raised portion, comprising on its external face a toothing. When the spring ring is mounted, the raised portion of the spring ring is calculated such that the latter is opposite the toothed ring. The spring ring allows both the (unidirectional) rotation of the bezel relative to the caseband and the holding of the bezel on the caseband. Brief summary of the invention

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide a watch case spring ring free from the limitations of known watch case spring rings.

[0010] Another aim of the present invention is to propose a watch case in which the bezel, when rotating, produces a better controlled and better defined noise, for example a reduced noise, compared to that of known solutions.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to propose a watch case in which the rotation torque of the bezel is less variable compared to that of known solutions.

[0012] Another aim of the present invention is to propose a watch case with a better controlled and better defined bezel rotation torque compared to that of known solutions, for example a guaranteed non-zero defined minimum torque during the rotation of the bezel.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a watch case which minimizes the number of components compared to known watch cases.

[0014] According to the invention, these aims are achieved in particular by means of the spring ring for a watch case according to claim 1, as well as by means of the method for manufacturing a spring ring according to claim 14.

[0015] The watch box includes: - a build, - a bezel arranged to rotate around an axis, the bezel comprising a circular track having a first diameter, and teeth having a second diameter different from the first diameter.

[0016] The spring ring according to the invention is arranged to be fixed to the case middle of this watch case and comprises: - at least one first spring blade arranged on a first diameter of the spring ring, and arranged to cooperate with the circular track, in order to create a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel, - at least one second spring blade arranged on a second diameter of the spring ring, and arranged to cooperate with the teeth, in order to produce a click when the bezel is rotated.

[0017] In this context, the expression "a first leaf spring... arranged to cooperate with the circular track, in order to create a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel" indicates that the first leaf spring contributes to the creation of this substantially constant rotational torque. Indeed, the constant rotational torque of the bezel is not obtained only via the cooperation between the first leaf spring and the circular track, but also thanks to another reaction force, in particular thanks to the reaction force due to the friction of the axial retaining element on the rotating bezel. In particular, this substantially constant rotational torque is created by the action of the first leaf spring which pushes the bezel upwards and by the reaction of the joint (namely the axial retaining element) which retains the bezel.

[0018] In one embodiment, the contribution to the substantially constant rotational torque due to the cooperation between the first leaf spring and the circular track is approximately 50%, namely 50% ± 10%. In this embodiment, this percentage is due to the fact that the force exerted by the first leaf spring on the bezel is the same as the reaction force of the gasket on the bezel (the bezel is in equilibrium), the only difference in terms of torque being due to the radius of contact of the first leaf spring on the bezel and of the gasket on the bezel.

[0019] In one embodiment, the contribution to the substantially constant rotational torque due to the cooperation between the first leaf spring and the circular track is (slightly) greater than 50%, for example it is greater than 55%, if the first leaf spring presses on the bezel in correspondence with a diameter greater than the support of the seal on the bezel: in fact, the torque being equal to the force times the lever arm (namely the radius), and the forces being equal, only the radius has an impact on the contribution to the torque.

[0020] In this context, the expression "substantially constant bezel torque" indicates that variations (e.g. variations due to the bezel toothing) of the order of magnitude of 10% relative to the average value of the bezel torque can be tolerated.

[0021] The spring ring according to the invention allows several functions to be performed, namely it contributes to creating a constant torque while allowing a click to be produced when the bezel is rotated. These functions are broken down, as they are performed by the interaction between the first spring blade and the circular track of the bezel, respectively by the interaction between the second spring blade and the teeth of the bezel.

[0022] Thanks to the spring ring according to the invention, which performs several functions, the watch case minimizes the number of components compared to known watch cases.

[0023] Thanks to the spring ring according to the invention, the rotation torque of the bezel is better controlled and better defined compared to that of known solutions. In one embodiment, the rotation torque is in the range 3 N cm to 7 N cm. Thanks to the spring ring according to the invention, it is possible for example to define a minimum rotation torque.

[0024] The spring ring according to the invention allows the rotation torque of the bezel and its noise to be adjusted independently according to the need.

[0025] Thanks to the spring ring according to the invention, the bezel produces a controlled noise during its rotation and at defined sound levels, for example a reduced noise compared to the noise of certain known solutions.

[0026] In one embodiment, the first leaf spring and the second leaf spring form an angle relative to a principal plane of the spring ring, and are arranged to push the bezel towards an upper face of the watch case.

[0027] In one embodiment, the spring ring comprises several first leaf springs, for example three first leaf springs, and a single second leaf spring.

[0028] In one embodiment, each leaf spring is arranged so that the angle separating two adjacent leaf springs is always the same.

[0029] In one embodiment, the spring ring comprises an element for orienting the spring ring relative to the caseband.

[0030] In one embodiment, the spring ring comprises an element for fixing the spring ring to the caseband for each first or second spring leaf.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first leaf spring and / or the second leaf spring comprises a portion of contact with the track respectively with the teeth, and an end portion comprising a free end of the first leaf spring and / or the second leaf spring, the contact portion being distinct from the end portion.

[0032] In one embodiment, the spring ring is a single piece.

[0033] In one embodiment, the torque is in the range of 3 N cm to 7 N cm.

[0034] The invention also relates to a watch case comprising: - a build, - a bezel arranged to rotate about an axis, the bezel comprising a circular track having a first diameter, and a toothing arranged on a circle having a second diameter different from the first diameter - the spring ring according to the invention.

[0035] In one embodiment, the toothing of the bezel is arranged such that the bezel can rotate in only one direction of rotation relative to the axis of rotation.

[0036] In one embodiment, the toothing of the bezel is arranged so that the bezel can rotate in two opposite directions of rotation relative to the axis of rotation.

[0037] The invention also relates to a timepiece, comprising the spring ring according to the invention or the watch case according to the invention.

[0038] The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a spring ring according to the invention, comprising the steps of: - cut the first leaf spring and the second leaf spring from a body of the spring ring, - bend the first leaf spring and the second leaf spring, so that the first leaf spring and the second leaf spring form an angle with respect to a principal plane of the spring ring. Brief description of the figures

[0039] Examples of implementation of the invention are indicated in the description illustrated by the appended figures in which: Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a watch case according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the watch case of Figure 1, along section AA. Figure 3 illustrates a side view along section BB of the portion of the watch case of Figure 2. Figure 4 illustrates a side view along section AA of the watch case of Figure 1, without the bezel. Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view along section AA of a portion of the watch case of Figure 4. Figure 6 illustrates a side view along section AA of a portion of the watch case of Figure 1, and in particular of the bezel. Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view from below along section AA of the bezel portion of Figure 6. Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view from above along section AA of a bezel portion opposite the bezel portion of Figure 7. Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the axial retaining ring element of the watch case of Figure 1. Figure 10 illustrates a top view of the axial retaining ring element of Figure 9. Figure 11 illustrates a CC sectional view of the axial retaining ring element of Figure 10. Figures 12A to 12E illustrate steps of a method for bonding a case middle of a watch case to a bezel of the watch case, according to one embodiment of the invention. Figures 13A to 13E illustrate steps of a method for bonding a case middle of a watch case to a bezel of the watch case, according to another embodiment of the invention. Figure 14 illustrates a perspective view of a spring ring for a watch case according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 15 illustrates a top view of the spring ring of Figure 14. Figure 16 illustrates a left side view of the spring ring of Figure 15. Figure 17 illustrates a side view from below of the spring ring of Figure 15. Figure 18 illustrates a sectional view DD of the spring ring of Figure 15. Figure 19 illustrates a right side view of the spring ring of Figure 15. Example(s) of embodiment(s) of the invention

[0040] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a watch case 1000 according to one embodiment of the invention. It comprises a case middle 2 and a bezel 1, the bezel 1 being arranged to rotate about an axis, in particular about the Z axis. The Z axis is perpendicular to a main XY plane of the bezel 1. In one embodiment, the Z axis is perpendicular to the crystal or the dial of the watch movement (not shown) and passes through its center. In one embodiment, one or more indicator members of the watch (not shown) are arranged to rotate about the Z axis or about another axis. In one embodiment, the bezel 1 is arranged to rotate in one direction only; in another embodiment, it is arranged to rotate in both directions. In general, a crystal (not shown) is mounted directly on the case middle 2 and is not integral with the bezel 1.In another embodiment, a glass is assembled on the bezel 1 and rotates integrally with the latter.

[0041] The bezel 1 of Figure 1 has a polygonal shape, in particular dodecagonal. However, the invention is not limited to such a shape, but includes all other shapes, for example and in a non-limiting manner circular, oval shapes, etc.

[0042] The bezel 1 of Figure 1 has edges comprising grooves 13, to improve the grip of the bezel by the user. However, the invention is not limited to the presence of such grooves, nor to their number, their shape or their arrangement as illustrated in Figure 1.

[0043] Case 2 generally houses a watch movement (not shown) and is generally closed on the side of the movement bridges by a back (not shown), which is opposite a glass (not shown).

[0044] The case 2 may be, for example and without limitation, made of metal, precious metal, ceramic, etc. The bezel 1 may be made of the same material as the case or of another material. The bezel 1 may comprise a portion, in particular an upper portion, comprising graduations or markers 14.

[0045] In one embodiment, the case middle 2 conventionally comprises a crown (not shown) to enable the watch to be wound and / or to move the indicator member(s). The crown may be housed in a crown housing 21. In one embodiment not shown, the case middle 2 also comprises one or more activation members such as buttons or push buttons to perform other functions, for example and in a non-limiting manner functions of a chronograph watch, etc.

[0046] In one embodiment, the case 2 conventionally comprises horns 22 (removable or not), making it possible to connect the case to strands of a bracelet (not shown).

[0047] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the watch case 1000 of Figure 1, along a section AA. Figure 3 illustrates another section of the portion of the watch case 1000 of Figure 2.

[0048] In one embodiment, the bezel 2 comprises a circular track 11, visible for example in FIG. 2, having a first diameter, and a toothing 12 (or toothed track) also visible in FIG. 2, arranged on a circle having a second diameter different from the first diameter. In one embodiment, the circular track 11 is adjacent to the toothing 12. The circular track 11 is smooth, namely without teeth.

[0049] In one embodiment, the diameter of the toothing 12 is smaller than the diameter of the circular track 11, as seen by example in Figure 2. In another embodiment (not shown), the diameter of the teeth 12 is larger than the diameter of the circular track 11.

[0050] The watch case 1000 also includes an axial retaining annular element 3, arranged to hold the bezel 1 on the caseband 2.

[0051] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the axial retaining ring element 3 of the watch case of Figure 1. Figure 10 illustrates a top view of the axial retaining ring element 3 of Figure 9. Figure 11 illustrates a sectional view CC of the axial retaining ring element 3 of Figure 10.

[0052] In one embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 is a ring having a section in the XZ plane in a single part. In one embodiment, this section is polygonal. In another embodiment, this section is concave and / or convex. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the perimeter of this section is curved.

[0053] In one embodiment, this section is a quadrilateral, in particular a trapezoid, an embodiment of which is visible for example in figures 2, 3 and 11.

[0054] In one embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 is in one piece, namely it is produced monolithically.

[0055] In one embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 is made of a deformable material, in particular deformable in bending. In one embodiment, it is made of a polymer, for example a thermoplastic elastomer. In one embodiment, it is made of Hytrel.

[0056] In one embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 is arranged to dampen sounds upon rotation of the bezel 1.

[0057] In one embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 is arranged to allow the removal of the bezel 1 from the caseband 2 when an axial force greater than a threshold is applied to the bezel 1 and / or the caseband 2. In one embodiment, this threshold is linked to the resistance provided by the annular axial retaining element 3.

[0058] In one embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 is arranged to create a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel 1, thanks to the friction induced by the annular axial retaining element 3 during rotation of the bezel 1.

[0059] In this context, the expression "the annular axial retaining element 3 is arranged to create a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel 1" indicates that the annular axial retaining element 3 contributes to the creation of this substantially constant rotational torque. Indeed, the constant rotational torque of the bezel 1 is not obtained only via the reaction force due to the friction of the axial retaining element 3 on the rotating bezel 1, but also thanks to the cooperation between the first leaf spring of a spring ring 4 which will be discussed later, and the circular track 11 of the bezel 1.

[0060] The torque of the bezel 1 is greater than that of known solutions. In one embodiment, the torque is in the range 3 N cm to 7 N cm.

[0061] Figures 12A to 12E illustrate steps of a method for connecting, for example by driving, a caseband 2 to a bezel 1, according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0062] In one embodiment, the middle part 2 comprises a first housing 200 for receiving the annular axial retaining element 3. An embodiment of this housing 200 is visible for example in FIG. 12A. In this embodiment, the housing 200 is substantially in the shape of a “mirrored” P, namely a P shape obtained with axial symmetry with respect to the Z axis, and it comprises a first U-shaped portion 201 lying along the X axis, and a second substantially rectangular portion 202. As will be seen, this embodiment is not limited to such a shape.

[0063] As visible in Figure 12B, the housing 200 is arranged to receive, at least partially, the annular axial retaining element 3. In the embodiment of Figure 12B, a portion of the annular axial retaining element 3 actually comes out of the housing 200 of the middle part 2. However, in this embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 remains well housed in the housing 200, so that it is secured to the middle part 2.

[0064] As seen in Figure 12B, the housing 200 comprises a first contact surface 203 and a second contact surface 204 which are arranged to remain permanently in contact with (i.e. to permanently touch) the annular axial retaining element 3.

[0065] In this context, the expression "permanently" indicates that there is contact between the annular axial retaining element 3 and both the first contact surface 203 and the second contact surface 204 when the bezel 1 is not connected to the middle part 2 (Figure 12B), when the bezel 1 and / or the middle part 2 is (are) moved axially so as to bring the bezel 1 closer to the middle part 2 in order to connect the bezel 1 to the middle part 2 (Figures 12C and 12D) and when the bezel 1 is connected to the middle part 2 (Figure 12E).

[0066] In one embodiment, the second contact surface 204 corresponds to an edge of the first housing 200.

[0067] In one embodiment, the housing 200 also comprises a friction surface 205. The annular axial retaining element 3 is not in contact with this friction surface 205 when the bezel 1 is not connected to the middle part 2: there is a distance di, visible for example in FIGS. 12B and 12C, between this friction surface 205 and the annular axial retaining element 3 when the bezel 1 is not connected to the middle part 2.

[0068] The annular axial retaining element 3 is not in contact with this friction surface 205 when the bezel 1 is connected to the middle 2: there is a distance d2, visible for example in FIG. 12E, between this friction surface 205 and the annular axial retaining element 3 when the bezel 1 is connected to the middle 2.

[0069] In one embodiment, the distance di is equal to the distance d2. In another embodiment (not shown), both the distance di and d2 are zero, provided that the contact between the annular axial retaining element 3 and the friction surface 205 does not deform the annular axial retaining element 3.

[0070] In one embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3 is in contact with this friction surface 205 only during a time range included in the interval in which the bezel 1 and / or the middle part 2 is / are moved axially so as to bring the bezel 1 closer to the middle part 2, in order to connect the bezel 1 to the middle part 2, as visible for example in FIG. 12D.

[0071] In one embodiment, this friction surface 205 is substantially parallel to the first contact surface 203.

[0072] In one embodiment and as visible for example in FIG. 12C, the annular axial retaining element 3 therefore comprises a surface 303 substantially parallel to the first contact surface 203 of the housing 200 and at least one portion of which is arranged to enter into permanent contact with this first contact surface 203; a surface 305 substantially parallel to the friction surface 205 of the housing 200 and at least a portion of which is arranged to come into contact with the friction surface 205 when the bezel 1 and / or the middle part 2 is (are) moved axially so as to bring the bezel 1 closer to the middle part 2, in order to connect the bezel 1 to the middle part 2; a surface 301 substantially parallel to a first friction surface 101 of a housing 100 of the bezel; and a surface 302, substantially parallel to the surface 301, a portion of which is arranged to come into permanent contact with this second contact surface 204 of the housing 200 of the middle part.

[0073] As discussed, bezel 1 and / or case 2 are arranged to be moved axially so as to bring bezel 1 closer to case 2, in order to connect bezel 1 to case 2: in the embodiment of figures 12A to 12E, it is bezel 1 which is moved along the direction of arrow E of figure 12D, to connect bezel 1 to case 2.

[0074] During this movement, in the embodiment of Figures 12A to 12E, the bezel 1 comes into contact with the annular axial retaining element 3, the axial movement of the bezel 1 ending when the bezel 1 is connected to the middle part 2 (Figure 12E). In particular, the annular axial retaining element 3 (and in particular a portion of its surface 301) comes into contact first with the first friction surface 101 of the bezel 1 (this contact not being visible in Figures 12A to 12E) and then with a second friction surface 102 of the bezel 1 (as visible in Figure 12D), this second friction surface 102 forming with the first friction surface 101 of the bezel 1 an edge 104 of the bezel 1.

[0075] During this movement, the annular axial retaining element 3 deforms, in particular deforms by bending, for example in the direction of the arrow F in figure 12D.

[0076] During this movement, only a portion of the surface 303 of the annular axial retaining element 3 remains in contact with the first contact surface 203 of the housing 200, as visible in FIG. 12D.

[0077] During this movement, the surface 305 of the annular axial retaining element 3 slides on the friction surface 205, for example in the direction of the arrow G in FIG. 12D.

[0078] In the embodiment of Figure 12C, the housing 100 of the bezel 1 has a substantially trapezoidal shape, in particular in the shape of a rectangular trapezoid. However, this shape is not limiting, and any other shape can be used, provided that the housing 100 comprises a connecting surface 106, arranged to form with the second friction surface 102 an edge 107.

[0079] Indeed, the annular axial retaining element 3 (in particular a portion of its surface 306) comes into contact with this edge 107 of the housing 100 during the axial movement of the bezel 1 and / or the caseband 2. In the embodiment of FIGS. 12A to 12E, the annular axial retaining element 3 also comes into contact with the edge 104 of the housing 100 during the axial movement of the bezel 1 and / or the caseband 2.

[0080] When the axial movement of the bezel 1 and / or the case 2 ends, namely when the bezel 1 is connected to the case 2, as for example visible in FIG. 12E, the housing 100 cooperates with the housing 200 so as to create a third housing 300 which receives the annular axial retaining element 3.

[0081] In the configuration of Figure 12E, at least a portion of the surface 306 of the annular axial retaining element 3 comes into contact with the connecting surface 106 of the housing 100. In one embodiment embodiment, the surface 306 of the annular axial retaining element 3 is substantially parallel to the connecting surface 106 of the housing 100.

[0082] In one embodiment, the friction between the surface 306 of the annular axial retaining element 3 and the connecting surface 106 of the housing 100 contributes to the creation of a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel 1.

[0083] In the configuration of Figure 12E, the first contact surface 203 of the housing 200 is in good contact with (all of) the surface 303 of the annular axial retaining element 3, the second contact surface 204 of the housing 200 is in good contact with a portion of the surface 302 of the annular axial retaining element 3 and there is a distance d2 between the surface 305 of the annular axial retaining element 3 and the friction surface 205 of the housing 200.

[0084] Advantageously, the dimensions and shape of the annular axial retaining element 3 are the same in the third housing 300 and outside the watch case after being received in the third housing 300. In other words, the annular axial retaining element 3 is in its nominal shape both when it is in the third housing 300 and when it is outside the watch case in a stress-free state, after being received in the third housing 300.

[0085] In other words, the annular axial retaining element 3 does not work in compression once the bezel 1 is connected to the caseband 2.

[0086] In one embodiment, the dimensions and shape of the annular axial retaining element 3 are the same in the first housing (Figure 12B) and in the third housing (Figure 12E). In other words, the annular axial retaining element 3 does not work in compression once the bezel 1 is connected to the caseband 2 (Figure 12E), it only deforms during a time range included in the interval in in which there is a relative axial movement between the bezel 1 and the case 2 (figure 12D), in order to create the connection between the bezel 1 and the case 2. In other words, the annular axial retaining element 3 is in its nominal form both when it is in the first (figure 12B) and in the third housing 300 (figure 12E).

[0087] In another embodiment (not shown), the dimensions or shape of the annular axial retaining element 3 are different in the first housing 100 and in the third housing 300, for example in the case of plasticization of the annular axial retaining element 3 during the connection between the bezel 1 and the caseband 2.

[0088] Figures 13A to 13E illustrate steps of a method for connecting, for example by driving, the middle part 2' to the bezel 1', according to another embodiment of the invention: in this embodiment, the annular axial retaining element 3' is received in a housing 100' of the bezel 1' when the bezel 1' is not yet connected to the middle part 2' (figure 13B).

[0089] In this embodiment, the bezel 1' comprises a first housing 100' for receiving the annular axial retaining element 3'. An embodiment of this housing 100' is visible for example in FIG. 13A. In this embodiment, the housing 100' is substantially P-shaped "mirrored", namely a shape obtained with symmetry with respect to the X axis, namely it comprises a first portion 101' substantially rectangular, and a second portion 102' U-shaped lying along the X axis. As will be seen, this embodiment is not limited to such a shape.

[0090] As seen in Figure 13B, the housing 100' is arranged to receive, at least partially, the annular axial retaining element 3'. In the embodiment of Figure 13B, a portion of the annular axial retaining element 3' actually comes out of the housing 100' of the bezel 1'. However, in this embodiment, the annular axial retaining element axial 3' remains well housed in the housing 100', so that it is integral with the telescope l'.

[0091] As seen in Figure 13B, the housing 100' includes a first contact surface 103' and a second contact surface 104' which are arranged to remain permanently in contact with (i.e. to permanently touch) the annular axial retaining element 3'.

[0092] As in the embodiment of Figures 12A to 12E, the expression "permanently" indicates that there is contact between the annular axial retaining element 3' and both the first contact surface 103' and the second contact surface 104' when the bezel 1' is not connected to the middle part 2' (Figure 13C), when the bezel 1' and / or the middle part 2' is (are) moved axially so as to bring the bezel 1' closer to the middle part 2' in order to connect the bezel 1' to the middle part 2' (Figures 13C and 13D) and when the bezel 1' is connected to the middle part 2' (Figure 13E).

[0093] In one embodiment, the second contact surface 104' corresponds to an edge of the housing 100'.

[0094] In one embodiment, the housing 100' also comprises a friction surface 105'. The annular axial retaining element 3' is not in contact with this friction surface 105' when the bezel 1' is not connected to the caseband 2': there is a distance i, visible for example in FIG. 13B, between this friction surface 105' and the annular axial retaining element 3' when the bezel 1' is not connected to the caseband 2'.

[0095] The annular axial retaining element 3' is not in contact with this friction surface 105' when the bezel 1' is connected to the caseband 2': there is a distance of 2, visible for example in figure 13E, between this friction surface 105' and the annular axial retaining element 3' when the bezel 1' is connected to the caseband 2'.

[0096] The considerations made for di and d2 also apply to the distances of i and d'2.

[0097] The annular axial retaining element 3' is only in contact with this friction surface 105' during a time range included in the interval in which the bezel 1' and / or the middle 2' is (are) moved axially so as to bring the bezel 1' closer to the middle 2', in order to connect the bezel 1' to the middle 2', as visible for example in FIG. 13D.

[0098] In one embodiment, this friction surface 105' is substantially parallel to the first contact surface 103'.

[0099] In one embodiment and as visible for example in Figure 13C, the annular axial retaining element 3' therefore comprises a surface 303' substantially parallel to the first contact surface 103' of the housing 100' and at least one portion of which is arranged to come into permanent contact with this first contact surface 103'; a surface 305' substantially parallel to the friction surface 105' of the housing 100' and at least one portion of which is arranged to come into contact with the friction surface 105' when the bezel 1' and / or the middle 2' is (are) moved axially so as to bring the bezel 1' closer to the middle 2', in order to connect the bezel 1' to the middle 2'; a surface 301' substantially parallel to a first friction surface 201' of a housing 200' of the middle 2';and a surface 302', substantially parallel to the surface 301', a portion of which is arranged to come into permanent contact with this second contact surface 104' of the housing 100' of the bezel 1'.;

[0100] As discussed, the bezel 1' and / or the middle 2' are arranged to be moved axially so as to bring the bezel 1' closer to the middle 2', in order to link the bezel 1' to the middle 2': in the embodiment of figures 13A to 13E, it is the middle 2' which is moved along in the direction of arrow E' in figure 13D, to connect the bezel 1' to the case 2'.

[0101] During this movement, in the embodiment of Figures 13A to 13E, the caseband 2' comes into contact with the annular axial retaining element 3', the axial movement of the caseband 2' ending when the bezel 1' is connected to the caseband 2' (Figure 13E). In particular, the annular axial retaining element 3' (and in particular a portion of its surface 301') comes into contact first with the first friction surface 201' of the caseband 2' (this contact not being visible in Figures 13A to 13E) and then with a second friction surface 202' of the caseband 2' (as visible in Figure 13D), this second friction surface 202' forming with the first friction surface 201' of the caseband 2' an edge 204' of the caseband 2'.

[0102] During this movement, the annular axial retaining element 3' deforms, in particular deforms by bending, for example in the direction of the arrow F' in figure 12D.

[0103] During this movement, only a portion of the surface 303' of the annular axial retaining element 3' remains in contact with the first contact surface 103' of the housing 100', as visible in FIG. 13D.

[0104] During this movement, the surface 305' of the annular axial retaining element 3' slides on the friction surface 105', for example in the direction of the arrow G' in figure 13D.

[0105] In the embodiment of Figure 13C, the housing 200' of the middle part 2 has a substantially trapezoidal shape, in particular in the shape of a rectangular trapezoid. However, this shape is not limiting, and any other shape can be used, provided that the housing 200' comprises a connecting surface 206', arranged to form with the second friction surface 202' an edge 207'.

[0106] Indeed, the annular axial retaining element 3' (in particular a portion of its surface 301') comes into contact with this edge 207' of the housing 200' during the axial movement of the bezel 1' and / or the caseband 2'. In the embodiment of FIGS. 13A to 13E, the annular axial retaining element 3'3' (in particular a portion of its surface 301') also comes into contact with the edge 204' of the housing 200' during the axial movement of the bezel 1' and / or the caseband 2'.

[0107] When the axial movement of the bezel 1' and / or the case 2' ends, namely when the bezel 1' is connected to the case 2', as for example visible in figure 13E, the housing 200' cooperates with the housing 100' so as to create a third housing 300' which receives the annular axial retaining element 3'.

[0108] In the configuration of Figure 13E, at least a portion of the surface 306' of the annular axial retaining element 3 comes into contact with the connecting surface 206' of the housing 100. In one embodiment, the surface 306' of the annular axial retaining element 3' is substantially parallel to the connecting surface 206' of the housing 200'.

[0109] In one embodiment, the friction between the surface 306' of the annular axial retaining element 3' and the connecting surface 206' of the housing 200' contributes to the creation of a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel 1'.

[0110] In the configuration of Figure 13E, the first contact surface 103' of the housing 100' is in good contact with (all of) the surface 303' of the annular axial retaining element 3', the second contact surface 104' of the first housing 100' is in good contact with a portion of the surface 302' of the annular axial retaining element 3' and there is a distance of 2 between the surface 305' of the annular axial retaining element 3' and the friction surface 105' of the housing 100'.

[0111] Advantageously, the dimensions and shape of the annular axial retaining element 3' are the same in the third housing 300' and outside the watch case after being received in the third housing 300'. In the illustrated embodiment, the dimensions and shape of the annular axial retaining element 3' are also the same in the housing 100' (Figure 13B) and in the third housing 300' (Figure 13E). In other words, the annular axial retaining element 3' does not work in compression once the bezel 1' is connected to the caseband 2' (Figure 13E), it only deforms during a time range belonging to the interval in which there is a relative axial movement between the bezel 1' and the caseband 2' (Figure 13D), in order to achieve the connection between the bezel 1' and the caseband 2'.In other words, the annular axial retaining element 3' is in its nominal shape both when it is in the housing 100' (figure 13B) and in the housing 300' (figure 13E).

[0112] In another embodiment (not shown), the dimensions or shape of the annular axial retaining element 3' are different in the first housing 100' and in the third housing 300', for example in the case of plasticization of the annular axial retaining element 3' during the connection between the bezel 1' and the caseband 2', without however being compressed.

[0113] In the embodiments of Figures 12A to 12E and 13A to 13E, the insertion of the bezel on the caseband is facilitated, but the extraction of the bezel is more difficult. The extraction of the bezel nevertheless remains possible, with sufficient force (for example a force greater than the equivalent forces in the event of impacts, for example 5000g), without the annular axial retaining element being damaged.

[0114] In the embodiment of Figures 12A to 12E, to extract the bezel 1 from the configuration of Figure 12E, it is necessary to axially move the bezel 1 and / or the case 2, so as to move the bezel 1 of case 2. For example, it is possible to move bezel 1 axially in a direction opposite to that of arrow E in figure 12D.

[0115] During this movement, the annular axial retaining element 3, and in particular its surface 306, slides on the connecting surface 106 of the bezel and then on the edge 107 (figure 12E). The surface 301 of the annular axial retaining element 3 then comes into contact with the second friction surface 102, the edge 104 and then the first friction surface 102, to return to the configuration of figure 12C.

[0116] During this movement (at least a portion of) the first contact surface 203 and (at least a portion of) the second contact surface 204 are arranged to remain permanently in contact with the annular axial retaining element 3. During this movement, the annular axial retaining element 3 comes into contact with the friction surface 205, to move away from it when the bezel 1 is no longer connected to the caseband 2, as for example illustrated in FIG. 12C.

[0117] The considerations made on the extraction of the bezel 1 in the embodiment of Figures 12A to 12E apply to the extraction of the bezel 1 in the embodiment of Figures 13A to 13 E , mutatis mutandis.

[0118] Figure 14 illustrates a perspective view of a spring ring 4 for a watch case 1000 according to one embodiment of the invention. Figures 15 to 19 illustrate different views of this spring ring 4. This spring ring 4 is arranged to be fixed to the caseband and to cooperate with the bezel of the embodiments of Figures 1 to 8, 12A to 12E and 13A to 13E. In the following, reference will be made for simplicity to the embodiment of Figures 1 to 8 and 12A to 12E.

[0119] This spring ring 4 is arranged to be fixed to the caseband 2 and to cooperate with the bezel 1, as visible for example in figures 2 and 3. The spring ring 4 notably comprises at least a first spring blade 41 arranged on a first diameter of the spring ring 4, for example on an external diameter. In the embodiment of Figure 14, there are three first spring blades 41. Each of these first spring blades 41 comprises a body 410, a fixed end 411 and a free end 412.

[0120] Each of these first leaf springs 41 is arranged to cooperate with the circular track 11 of the bezel 1 (visible in FIG. 3), in order to create a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel. As discussed, the constant rotational torque of the bezel 1 is not obtained only via the cooperation between the first leaf spring(s) 41 and the circular track 11, but also thanks to another reaction force, in particular thanks to the reaction force due to the friction of the axial retaining element 3 on the rotating bezel 1.

[0121] The spring ring 4 also comprises at least one second spring leaf 42 arranged on a second diameter of the spring ring, for example on an internal diameter. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, there is only one second spring leaf 42. However, several second spring leaf(s) 42 may also be present. Each of these second leaf springs 42 comprises a body 420, a fixed end 421 and a free end 422.

[0122] Each of these second spring blades 42 is arranged to cooperate with the teeth 12 of the bezel 1 (visible in figure 3), in order to produce a click when the bezel 1 rotates.

[0123] The spring ring 4 therefore makes it possible to perform several functions, namely it contributes to creating a constant torque while making it possible to produce a click when rotating the bezel 1. These functions are broken down, because they are performed by the interaction between the first spring blade 41 and the circular track 11 of the bezel 1, respectively by the interaction between the second spring blade 42 and the teeth 12 of the bezel 1.

[0124] Thanks to this spring ring 4 which performs several functions, the watch case 1000 has fewer components compared to known watch cases.

[0125] Thanks to the spring ring 4, it is possible to adjust the rotation torque of the bezel 1 as required. Thanks to the spring ring 4, it is possible to independently adjust the value of the rotation torque of the bezel 1 and the noise of the bezel 1 during its rotation (the "click") independently. The presence of two tracks on the bezel (one toothed 12 and the other smooth 11) and two diameters for the spring blades of the spring ring 4 makes it possible to adjust the rotation torque and the "click" independently. For example, if we want to increase only the constant torque value, we can increase only the winding of the spring blade(s) 41 which rub on the track 11 of the bezel 1. If we want to modify only the click, we modify only the winding of the spring blade(s) 42 in engagement with the teeth of the toothing 12, or we modify the toothing.

[0126] The spring ring 4 also makes it possible to have a greater rotation torque of the bezel 1 compared to that of known solutions. In one embodiment, the rotation torque is in the range 3 N cm to 7 N cm. The rotation torque also depends on the number of first spring blades 41: the greater this number, the greater the rotation torque of the bezel 1. In one embodiment, the larger the diameter of the bezel 1, the higher the rotation torque exerted by a user.

[0127] Thanks to the spring ring 4, the telescope 1 produces, during its rotation, a controlled noise defined in relation to the noise of known solutions. In one embodiment, the telescope 1 produces, during its rotation, a reduced noise compared to the noise of certain known solutions.

[0128] In one embodiment, the body 410 of the first leaf spring(s) 41 and the body 420 of the second leaf spring(s) 42 form an angle a (visible for example in figure 14) with respect to a principal plane of the spring ring 4 (which is substantially parallel to the principal plane of the bezel 1). Preferably, but not necessarily, these angles are all equal.

[0129] In one embodiment, the first spring blade(s) 41 and the second spring blade(s) 42 are arranged to push the bezel 1 towards an upper face of the watch case 1000. In this context, the upper face of the watch case 1000 is the one which comprises the dial, and which is opposite a lower face comprising the bottom of the watch case 1000.

[0130] In one embodiment, the rotation torque of the bezel 1 also depends on the angle a: the larger this angle, the larger the rotation torque of the bezel 1 will be.

[0131] In one embodiment, the rotation torque of the bezel 1 also depends on the width w (visible in figure 15) of each first spring blade 41: the greater this width, the greater the rotation torque of the bezel 1 will be.

[0013] In one embodiment, the rotation torque of the bezel 1 also depends on the length I (visible in figure 15) of each first spring blade 41. - Long blades, combined with increased armature, make it possible to increase the robustness of the system, namely to absorb without major impacts geometric variations which will be low in the armature. In other words, the longer the blades and the more armature can be used, the smaller the geometric variations of the blades are compared to this armature, the more robust the system is.

[0133] In one embodiment, the first leaf spring(s) 41 and the second leaf spring(s) 42 are equidistant (in angle), i.e. they are arranged so that the angle separating two adjacent leaf springs is always the same.

[0134] In one embodiment, the spring ring 4 comprises an element 45 for orienting (or angularly positioning) the spring ring 4 relative to the middle 4. In the embodiment of figure 45, this orientation element is a hook, but other orientation elements known to those skilled in the art can be used instead of the hook.

[0135] In one embodiment, the spring ring 4 comprises a fixing element 43 for fixing the spring ring 4 to the middle part 2 for each first or second spring leaf. These fixing elements 43 also make it possible to prevent undesirable deformation of the spring ring 4.

[0136] In the embodiment of Figure 14, each fastening element 43 is a through hole, which cooperates with a screw (not shown), however other fastening elements known to those skilled in the art can be used instead of the hole-screw assembly, for example a clipping system, etc.

[0137] In one embodiment, the angular distance between a hole and the fixed end of a corresponding leaf spring is less than 1°, for example equal to 0.6°.

[0138] In one embodiment, the attachment of the spring ring 4 to the caseband 2 has an impact on the rotation torque of the bezel 1. In one embodiment, the attachment is adjustable (for example the screw is more or less tight), which makes it possible to adjust the rotation torque of the bezel 1.

[0139] In one embodiment, the spring ring 4 comprises elements which allow both the attachment to the middle 2 of the spring ring 4 and its orientation relative to the middle 2.

[0140] The free end 412 of each first leaf spring 41 may form a first angle, which may be different from that (a) formed by the body 410 of each first leaf spring 41.

[0141] The free end 422 of each second leaf spring 42 may form a second angle, which may be different from that (a) formed by the body 420 of each first leaf spring 42. The second angle may be different from that of the first angle of the free end 412 of each first leaf spring 41, as seen in FIG. 14 for example.

[0142] In one embodiment, the first leaf spring(s) 41 and the second leaf spring(s) 42 comprise a contact portion with the track 11 respectively with the toothing 12, and an end portion comprising the free end 412 respectively 422, the contact portion being distinct from the end portion. This makes it possible to ensure that the contact with the track 11 respectively with the toothing 12 is not made in correspondence with the free end 412 respectively 422 of each leaf spring, in order to have a controllable contact which is not in correspondence with the edge of the free end 412, 422. In another embodiment, the contact portion coincides with the end portion.

[0143] In one embodiment, the spring ring 4 is in one piece.

[0144] In one embodiment, the spring ring 4 is made of a material having a high elastic limit (for example equal to or greater than 1500 MPa), a high rigidity (for example equal to or greater than 180 GPa), which is polishable, which has resistance to fatigue and / or corrosion, and / or which is easily manufacturable (for example via usual processes such as cutting, bending, etc.)

[0145] In one embodiment, the spring ring 4 is made of spring steel, durnico or Durimphy®.

[0146] In one embodiment, the spring ring 4 is made of a non-magnetic austenitic material, for example phynox.

[0147] In one embodiment, the rotation torque of the bezel 1 also depends on the material of each first spring blade 41.

[0148] In one embodiment, the toothing 11 of the bezel 1 is arranged such that the bezel 1 can rotate in only one direction of rotation relative to the axis of rotation Z. In another embodiment, the toothing 11 of the bezel 1 is arranged such that the bezel 1 can rotate in two opposite directions of rotation relative to the axis of rotation Z.

[0149] Spring ring 4 can be manufactured: - by cutting the first leaf spring(s) 41 and the second leaf spring(s) 42 from a body of the spring ring, - by bending the first leaf spring(s) 41 and the second leaf spring(s) 42, so that the body of the first leaf spring(s) 41 and the second leaf spring(s) 42 form an angle α with respect to a main plane of the spring ring. These angles α may all have the same value or have a different value.

[0150] The spring ring 4 can be used instead of the known spring rings and the watch case 1000 can be compatible with existing watch models. Reference symbols used in the figures , r Bezel 1 Circular track 2 Toothing 3 Groove 4 Graduation / mark , 2' Middle 1 Crown housing 2 Horn , 3' Axial retaining ring element Ring spring 1 First blade 2 Second blade 3 Fixing element 5 Orientation element 00, 100' Bezel housing 01 First friction surface of housing 100 02 Second friction surface of housing 100 03' First contact surface of housing 100' 04' Second contact surface of housing 100' 04 Edge of housing 100 05' Friction surface of housing 100' 06 Connecting surface of housing 100 07 Edge of housing 100 00, 200' Caseband housing 01 First portion of housing 200 01' First friction surface of housing 200' 02 Second portion of housing 200 02' Second friction surface of housing 200' 03 First contact surface of housing 200 04 Second contact surface of housing 200 04' Edge of housing 200' 06' Housing connection surface 200' 07' Housing edge 200' 300, 300' Third accommodation 301, 301' Surface of the axial retaining annular element 3 302, 302' Surface of the axial retaining annular element 3 303, 303' Surface of the axial retaining annular element 3 305, 305' Surface of the axial retaining annular element 3 306, 306' Surface of the axial retaining annular element 3 410 Body of the first blade 41 411 Fixed end of the first blade 41 412 Free end of the first blade 41 420 Body of the second blade 42 421 Fixed end of the second blade 42 422 Free end of the second blade 42 1000 Watch Box AA Cup BB Cup CC Cup DD Cut di, d2 Distance d'i, d'2 Distance E, E' Arrow F, F' Arrow G, G' Arrow I Length w Width XY Plan Z Axis to Angle

Claims

Claims 1. Spring ring (4) for watch case (1000), the watch case (1000) comprising: - a build (2), - a bezel (1) arranged to rotate around an axis (Z), the bezel (1) comprising a circular track (11) having a first diameter, and a toothing (12) having a second diameter different from the first diameter, the spring ring (4) being arranged to be fixed to the caseband (2), the spring ring (4) comprising: - at least one first spring blade (41) arranged on a first diameter of the spring ring (4), and arranged to cooperate with the circular track (11), in order to create a substantially constant rotational torque of the bezel (1), - at least one second spring blade (42) arranged on a second diameter of the spring ring (4), and arranged to cooperate with the teeth (12), in order to make a click when rotating the bezel (4).

2. Spring ring (4) according to claim 1, the first spring blade (41) and the second spring blade (42) forming an angle (a) relative to a main plane of the spring ring (4), and being arranged to push the bezel towards an upper face of the watch case (1000).

3. Spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 or 2, comprising several first spring blades (41), for example three first spring blades (41), and a single second spring blade (42).

4. Spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 3, each spring leaf (41, 42) being arranged so that the angle which separates two adjacent spring leaves (41, 42) is always the same.

5. Spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 4, comprising an element (45) for orienting the spring ring relative to the caseband.

6. Spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a fixing element (43) of the spring ring (4) to the middle part (2) for each first or second spring leaf.

7. Spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 6, the first leaf spring (41) and / or the second leaf spring (42) comprising a contact portion with the track (11) respectively with the teeth (12), and an end portion comprising a free end (412, 422) of the first leaf spring (41) and / or of the second leaf spring (42), the contact portion being distinct from the end portion.

8. Spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 7, being in one piece.

9. Spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 8, the rotation torque being in the range 3 N cm to 7 N cm.

10. Watch box (1000) comprising: - a build (2), - a bezel (1) arranged to rotate about an axis (Z), the bezel (1) comprising a circular track (11) having a first diameter, and a toothing (12) arranged on a circle having a second diameter different from the first diameter - the spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 9.

11. Watch case (1000) according to claim 10, the toothing (12) of the bezel (1) being arranged so that the bezel (1) can rotate in only one direction of rotation relative to the axis of rotation.

12. Watch case (1000) according to claim 10, the toothing (12) of the bezel (1) being arranged so that the bezel (1) can rotate in two opposite directions of rotation relative to the axis of rotation (Z).

13. Timepiece, comprising the spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 9 or the watch case according to one of claims 10 to 12.

14. Method of manufacturing a spring ring (4) according to one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the steps of: - cutting the first leaf spring (41) and the second leaf spring (42) from a body of the spring ring (4), - bending the first leaf spring (42) and the second leaf spring (42), so that the first leaf spring (41) and the second leaf spring (42) form an angle (a) relative to a main plane of the spring ring (4).

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