Modular element for adjustable strap for watches

Abstract

Modular element (M) for adjustable strap (1) for watches comprising: a first link (Ml) configured to be associated with at least a second link (M2) arranged consecutively, the first link (Ml) having a lateral portion (MF) defining a first side (LI) of the first link (Ml), and a movable element (R) arranged at an opposite second side (L2) of the first link (Ml), a first pin (Pl) extending from the lateral portion (MF) towards the movable element (R) and passing through a first through channel (Cl) formed in the second link (M2), a second pin (P2) extending from the lateral portion (MF) to the movable element (R) through a second channel (C2) formed in the first link (Ml), the second pin (P2) being movable within the second channel (C2) to / from the lateral portion (MF).

Description

[0001] MODULAR ELEMENT FOR ADJUSTABLE STRAP FOR WATCHES

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a modular element for adjustable strap for watches. Specifically, the perfected modular element is usable to allow the adjustment of the length of a strap.

[0004] Background Art

[0005] As is well known, there are watch straps composed of a plurality of modular elements which are connected to each other in succession to form a deformable chain, so that the user can put it on and take it off. The length of such straps is generally fixed and can only be adjusted by experienced personnel who are responsible for disassembling the modules to insert or remove new ones in order to adjust the fit of the strap to the user’s wrist.

[0006] Description of the Invention

[0007] The Applicant realized the need to develop a solution that would allow even inexperienced users to be able to independently adjust the length of the straps of the modular element type without the need to perform complicated operations and thus to simplify the disassembly / assembly operations of the modular elements.

[0008] Thus, one object of the present invention is to offer a perfected modular element which allows the manual and simplified adjustment of the length of a strap without the need to use tools, e.g. watchmaker’s tools or precision screwdrivers.

[0009] The aforementioned objects and benefits are achieved by a modular element for adjustable strap for watches in accordance with claim 1.

[0010] An additional object of the present invention is achieved by an adjustable strap in accordance with claim 25.

[0011] Still an additional object of the present invention is achieved by a watch comprising a modular element for adjustable strap for watches in accordance with claim 27.

[0012] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of a modular element for adjustable strap for watches, illustrated by way of an indicative, yet non-limiting example, in the accompanying tables of drawings in which: each of the Figures la- Id shows an exploded perspective view of the modular element for adjustable strap for watches according to respective embodiments in accordance with this description;

[0014] - Figure 2 is a side perspective view of a plurality of modular elements according to a described embodiment; each of the Figures 3a-3f is a sectional view of a strap link according to respective embodiments in accordance with this description;

[0015] - Figure 4 is a sectional view of the modular element in fig. 3d in a different configuration of use;

[0016] - Figures 5a, 5b, 5c are front views of the method of adjusting a strap according to the invention;

[0017] - Figure 6 is an exploded view of the modular element of this invention according to an additional embodiment described herein,

[0018] - Figure 7 is a partial sectional view of the modular element according to an additional embodiment described herein.

[0019] Embodiments of the Invention

[0020] With particular reference to these figures, reference letter M globally denotes a modular element for an adjustable strap for watches.

[0021] The strap 1 comprises a plurality of central modular elements M, hereinafter also referred to as links, and a plurality of side elements / portions arranged consecutively to each other along a longitudinal direction X-X for the purpose of making an ornamental chain to be attached to a watch case. The links M are constrained to each other by means of the side elements / portions which, by means of appropriate pins P, allow the links M to be supported to arrange themselves around a user’s wrist. Additionally, as will be appreciated later in this description, thanks to specific design, it is possible to remove one or more links M from the ornamental chain by disengaging, at least partly, specific side rotatable elements R from the respective link M.

[0022] In this context, as shown in the figures, the strap 1 comprises a predefined number of links M selected according to the diameter of the user’s wrist. Specifically, the figures identify a first link Ml, a second link M2, a third link M3 and so on arranged consecutively.

[0023] The links M and the side elements / portions F, R preferably have a convex concave profile. It cannot, however, be ruled out that the links M and the elements F, R may have a different profile, e.g. straight on both upper and lower surfaces.

[0024] In each link M, two opposite sides LI, L2 are identified from which various openings, channels and holes are made as described in detail below. In order not to overburden the description, the features of the first link Ml only will be listed below, pointing out that the remaining links M of the strap 1 have a substantially similar, if not identical, feature to each other.

[0025] As illustrated, the modular element M comprises a first link Ml configured to be associated with at least a second link M2 arranged consecutively. The first link Ml has a lateral portion MF which defines the first side LI of the first link Ml . In detail, the first link Ml comprises a central body MC and a fixed element F defining the lateral portion MF and arranged laterally to the central body MC.

[0026] As illustrated, in the first link Ml the following elements are at least identified: a first through channel Cl obtained transversely from the first side LI to the second side L2, a second channel C2 obtained transversely from the first side LI to the second side L2. In the first embodiment, the second channel C2 is through and crosses both the lateral portion MF, the fixed element F and the central body MC.

[0027] In detail, the second channel C2 may comprise a first portion C2’, preferably through, obtained in the central body MC and a second portion C2”, blind or through, obtained in the lateral portion MF. The second channel C2 may also comprise only the first portion C2’ obtained in the central body MC.

[0028] First embodiment

[0029] In the first embodiment, such as the one shown in Figure 3f, the fixed element F is made in a single body piece with the central body MC, and the second channel C2 is through and crosses, preferably, both the lateral portion MF and the central body MC. In detail, the second channel C2 is defined by the first through portion C2’ obtained in the central body MC and by the second through portion C2” obtained in the lateral portion MF.

[0030] As anticipated above, the first link Ml is configured to be associated with at least a second link M2 arranged consecutively. The second link M2 can be associated with a third link M3 arranged consecutively, and so on.

[0031] The modular element M also comprises a movable element R arranged at the second side L2 of the first link Ml opposite the first side LI . In particular, the movable element R is rotatable. In the following description, we will refer to the movable element R as rotatable element R and / or as movable element R.

[0032] The modular element M comprises a first pin Pl which extends from the lateral portion MF towards the movable element R.

[0033] The first pin Pl passes through a first through channel Cl obtained in the second link M2. The first pin Pl has greater length than a length of the first channel Cl. The first pin Pl is adapted to protrude laterally from the second link M2 by passing through the first channel Cl. In detail, the first pin Pl juts out from the second link M2 towards the lateral portion MF and towards the movable element R.

[0034] The first pin Pl has ends PL, Pl”. The ends PL and Pl” of the first pin Pl are configured to at least partly fit into and engage a second cavity H2 formed in the lateral portion MF and into a second hole 02 of the rotatable element R, respectively. One end PL of the first pin Pl is connected to the rotatable element R in a removable manner and the other end Pl” of the first pin Pl is connected to the lateral portion MF in a fixed manner.

[0035] Specifically, the first pin Pl is fixed in the second cavity H2 of the lateral portion MF. The first pin Pl is, in addition, engageable in a removable manner to the movable element R in a second hole 02 made in the movable element R.

[0036] The second cavity H2 may have a thread for the connection to the first pin P 1. The first pin can be screwed and / or configured to be screwed within the second cavity H2. According to one aspect, the end Pl’ of the first pin Pl may have a head adapted to be coupled with a screwdriver for screwing the first pin Pl within the second cavity H2 of the lateral portion MF.

[0037] The first pin Pl is movable idle within the first channel Cl of the second link M2 thus allowing the latter to be able to rotate axially around the first pin Pl .

[0038] The modular element M also comprises a second pin P2 that extends from the lateral portion MF to the movable element R through a second channel C2 formed in the first link Ml. The second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2 to and from the lateral portion MF. The second pin P2 can have greater length than a length of the second through channel C2. In detail, the second pin P2 is configured to protrude laterally from the first link Ml towards the movable element R to connect thereto.

[0039] The second pin P2 is movable close to / away from the lateral portion MF. The second pin P2 can slide within the second channel C2 to move close to / away from the lateral portion MF.

[0040] According to one aspect, the second pin P2 extends along a direction of extension Y-Y between a first end P2’ arranged in the second channel C2 and an opposite end P2” connected to the movable element R.

[0041] Specifically, the first end P2’ of the second pin P2 is movable with respect to the lateral portion MF and with respect to the first link Ml within the second channel C2. The opposite end P2” of the second pin P2 is fixed in a first hole 01 of the movable element R.

[0042] As already anticipated, the second pin P2 extends by a greater length than the length of the second channel C2 of the first link Ml to connect to the rotatable element R. The opposite end P2” of the second pin P2 faces the movable element R. In detail, the opposite end P2’ is configured to at least partly fit into and permanently engage the first hole 01 of the movable element R. The opposite end P2” is fixed inside the first hole 01 of the movable element R so that the mutual movement between the movable element R and the second pin P2 at least along the direction Y-Y is counteracted and / or prevented.

[0043] The first hole 01 can be threaded and the opposite end P2” of the second pin P2 can be screwed to the movable element R in that first hole 01. According to one aspect, the first end P2’ of the second pin P2 may have a head adapted to be coupled with a screwdriver for screwing the second pin P2 within the first hole 01 of the movable element R.

[0044] Specifically, the second pin P2 passes through the first link Ml by passing idle through the second channel C2. The second pin P2 can rotate within the second channel C2 with respect to the first link Ml. In other words, the relative rotation between the second pin P2 and the first link Ml is possible.

[0045] Advantageously, the movable element R is movable between a first position, in which it is moved close to the first link Ml and to the second link M2, and a second position, in which it is moved away from the first link Ml and from the second link M2 to allow the element to disengage the first pin Pl from the second hole 02 and to slide the second link M2 from the first pin Pl so that the second link M2 can be removed from the strap C.

[0046] In the first (close) position of the movable element R, the second pin P2 is in a position of maximum extension within the channel C2. In the second (away) position of the movable element R, the second pin P2 is in a position of minimum extension within the channel C2 to allow the movable element R to: disengage the first pin from the second hole 02, slide the second link M2 off the first pin Pl, and remove the second link M2 from the strap 1.

[0047] The second pin P2 is movable, therefore, among a plurality of positions comprising a position of maximum extension of the second pin P2 within the second channel C2 and a position of minimum extension of the second pin P2 within the second channel C2. In fact, the extension of the first end P2’ arranged within the second channel C2 is variable. In other words, the space occupied by the second pin P2 within the second channel C2 is variable depending on the mutual position between the second pin P2 and the lateral portion MF or between the second pin P2 and the fixed element F.

[0048] Specifically, the first end P2’ is configured to move along the direction of extension Y-Y within the second channel C2 when the second pin P2 moves among the plurality of positions.

[0049] The movement along the direction Y-Y within the second channel C2 of the second pin P2 is locked together with the movement of the rotatable element R. Specifically, when the rotatable element R is grasped by a user and moved away from / close to the first link Ml, the second pin P2 slides within the second channel C2 by varying the position thereof within the latter.

[0050] Usefully, each position of the plurality of positions of the second pin P2 is associated with a nonzero extension of the second pin P2 within the second channel C2. In detail, the extension associated with each position is defined by the mutual position between the first end P2’ and the first link Ml, preferably between the first end P2’ and the lateral portion MF. At the position of maximum extension (close position of the movable element R), the first end P2’ of the second pin P2 defines a maximum extension within the second channel C2. For example, the second pin P2 may be configured to fully occupy the second channel C2 at the position of maximum extension within the second channel C2. In other words, the second pin P2 can be configured to extend within the second channel C2 by the full length of the latter and juts out from the second side L2 to connect with the movable element R.

[0051] Conversely, at the position of minimum extension (away position of the movable element R), the first end of the second pin P2 defines a minimum extension within the second channel C2. For example, the second pin P2 can be configured to clear the second channel C2 at the position of minimum extension within the second channel C2. Thus, when the movable element R is moved away from the first link Ml, the second channel C2 is partly cleared from the second pin P2.

[0052] According to one aspect, the first link Ml comprises elastic means S arranged between the second pin P2 and the second channel C2. The elastic means S comprise a spring arranged around the second pin P2, specifically, between the second pin P2 and the second through channel C2 of the first link Ml . Advantageously, the spring S is fitted on the second pin P2 and also inserted into the second channel C2 of the first link Ml.

[0053] The elastic means S are configured to counteract or promote the movement of such second pin P2 within the second channel C2 along the direction of extension Y-Y. Specifically, the elastic means S are configured to be compressed along the direction of extension Y-Y and to counteract the movement of the second pin P2 from the position of maximum extension (close position of the movable element R) to the position of minimum extension (away position of the movable element R). Conversely, the elastic means S are configured to promote the movement of the second pin P2 from the position of minimum extension to the position of maximum extension within the second channel C2.

[0054] The spring S is substantially pre-compressed to keep the rotatable element R normally attached to the first link Ml and / or the second pin P2 at the position of maximum extension.

[0055] The elastic means S are configured to move the second pin P2 among the plurality of positions towards the position of maximum extension and, therefore, the movable element R towards the first position. The elastic means S are adapted to move the second pin P2 back from the position of minimum extension towards the position of maximum extension. In other words, the elastic means S are configured to counteract the movement of the second pin P2 away from the lateral portion MF or from the fixed element F. For example, the elastic means S counteract the movement of the second pin P2 when the movable element R is moved away from the first link Ml. In fact, the elastic means S are configured to keep the movable element R normally attached to the second side L2 of the first link Ml . Specifically, the first end P2’ of the second pin P2 is configured to compress the elastic means S at least when the second pin P2 is at the position of minimum extension within the second channel C2.

[0056] According to one aspect, the second channel C2 has a shoulder B to counteract the axial movement of the elastic means S towards the movable element R and / or of the first end P2’ of the second pin P2 away from the lateral portion MF, preferably at least when the second pin P2 is at the position of minimum extension.

[0057] The first end P2’ of the second pin P2 has a stop surface configured to receive and stop the elastic means S at least in the movement of the second pin P2 within the second channel C2, that is, in the movement of the second pin P2 among the plurality of positions. The first end P2’ of the second pin P2 is substantially widened in a radial pattern with respect to the main body of the second pin P2 so that the movement of the second pin P2 is counteracted or promoted by the elastic means S. For example, the first end P2’ widened in a radial pattern allows the elastic means S to promote the movement of the second pin P2 from the position of minimum extension to the position of maximum extension when the user releases the rotatable element R. The elastic means S are arranged within the second channel C2 of the first link Ml interposed between the stop surface of the first end P2’ of the second pin P2 and the shoulder B of the second channel C2.

[0058] In detail, the second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2 in the movement of the movable element R from the first to the second position and vice versa. In other words, the second pin P2 is configured to move within the second channel C2 of the first link Ml when the movable element R is moved between the first position and the second position.

[0059] The second pin P2 is movable among the plurality of positions depending on the movement of the movable element R between the first position and the second position. The second pin P2 is configured to be placed at the position of maximum extension when the movable element R is at the first position.

[0060] The second pin P2 is configured to be placed at the position of minimum extension when the movable element R is placed at the second position. In other words, when the rotatable element R is moved away from the first link Ml and from the second link M2, the second pin P2 is at the position of minimum extension. When the rotatable element R is moved close to the first link and to the second link, the second pin P2 is at the position of maximum extension.

[0061] In fact, the second pin P2 can be configured to fully engage the second channel C2 when the movable element R is close to the first link Ml and placed at the first position. The second pin P2 can also be configured to almost completely free the second channel C2 when the movable element R is moved away from the first link Ml and placed at the second position.

[0062] Second embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention differs from the first embodiment in that the fixed element F and the central body MC are separate bodies from each other and the fixed element F is constrained laterally to the central body MC, preferably by means of the pins as described below. The fixed element F is arranged laterally to the central body MC and the lateral portion MF is defined by the fixed element F.

[0063] The second channel C2 of the first link Ml is defined by the central body MC and is blind. In detail, the second channel C2 is only defined by the first through portion C2’ obtained in the central body MC.

[0064] The fixed element F laterally closes the first through portion C2’ of the central body MC so that the second channel C2 is blind.

[0065] The first pin Pl and the second pin P2, in particular, extend from the fixed element F towards the movable element R. The first pin Pl and the second pin P2 are adapted to protrude laterally from the central body MC of the first link Ml towards the movable element R. In particular, the first pin Pl is also adapted to protrude from the central body MC of the first link Ml towards the fixed element F.

[0066] Specifically, the second pin P2 is movable within the second channel C2, particularly within the first portion C2’ of the second channel C2, to and from the fixed element F. The second pin P2 is movable close to and / or away from the fixed element F within the first portion C2’ of the second channel C2. The second pin P2 can slide within the second channel C2 to move close to and away from the fixed element F.

[0067] The second pin P2 can be configured to abut on the fixed element at the position of maximum extension within the second channel C2. In detail, the second pin P2 can be configured to fully engage the second channel C2 at the position of maximum extension. In other words, the second pin P2 engages the second channel C2, and thus the first portion C2’ of the second channel C2, by its full length at the position of maximum extension.

[0068] According to one aspect, the modular element M comprises a third pin P3 that extends from the fixed element F towards the first link Ml to be inserted into a first opening Al formed in the first link Ml. Specifically, the first opening Al is made in the central body MC of the first link Ml. The first opening Al is obtained transversely from the first side LI towards the second side L2 by a stretch of predetermined length.

[0069] The third pin P3 extends between two ends P3’, P3”. The ends P3’, P3” of the third pin P3 are configured to fit and engage in a fixed manner in the first opening Al made in the first link Ml and in a third cavity H3 of the fixed element F, respectively. The third pin P3 is partly inserted into a third cavity H3 made in the fixed element F and locked therein. The third cavity H3 can have a thread and the third pin P3 can be screwed and / or configured to be screwed into the third cavity H3.

[0070] The modular element M may comprise a fourth pin P4 that extends from the fixed element F towards the first link Ml to be inserted into a second opening A2 made in the first link Ml. The second opening A2 is made into the central body MC of the first link Ml . The second opening A2 is obtained transversely from the first side LI towards the second side L2 by a stretch of predetermined length.

[0071] The fourth pin P4 is partly inserted into a fourth cavity H4 made in the fixed element F and locked therein. The fourth cavity H4 can have a thread and the fourth pin P4 can be screwed and / or configured to be screwed into the fourth cavity H4.

[0072] In particular, the third pin P3 and the fourth pin P4 can be completely similar to each other. The modular element M may comprise both the third pin P3 and the fourth pin P4 or only one of either the third or the fourth pins P3, P4. In other words, the fourth pin P4 can be in addition or as an alternative to the third pin P3 and vice versa.

[0073] The third and fourth pins P3, P4 allow the fixed element F to remain, in use, always adhered to the first link Ml. Preferably, the third and fourth pins P3, P4 are substantially similar, if not identical, to each other and have a greater length than the width of the fixed element F and less than the width of the first link Ml .

[0074] Specifically, the openings Al, A2 and the channels Cl, C2 described above are arranged consecutively in the following order along X-X: first channel Cl, first opening Al, second channel C2, second opening A2. In detail, the cavities of the fixed element F are arranged in the following order along X-X: third cavity H3, fourth cavity H4, second cavity H2.

[0075] According to one aspect, the cavities of the fixed element F, the openings Al, A2 of the first link Ml and the holes 01, 02 of the movable element R are blind while the channels Cl, C2 of the first link Ml are through.

[0076] According to one aspect, the central body MC of the first link Ml may comprise one or more elements connected to each other having respective aligned through channels to define said first channel Cl and / or second channel C2 of the first link Ml.

[0077] The central body MC can comprise one to three elements. In one embodiment, the central body comprises two elements arranged laterally to a central element, such as shown in Figure 6. In other words, the modular element M is adapted to make five-link straps.

[0078] According to one aspect, the main body comprises an individual element or two elements side by side so that the modular element M is adapted to make two- and three-link straps, respectively. Third embodiment A third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the fixed element F has a first cavity Hl that at least partly defines the second channel C2 of the first link Ml. Specifically, the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F defines the second blind or through portion C2” of the second channel C2. The cavity Hl is aligned with the first portion C2’ of the second channel C2 obtained in the central body MC to define the second channel C2 of the first link Ml. In detail, in the third embodiment, the second channel C2 can be blind or through. In other words, the first portion C2’ of the second channel C2 is through and the second portion C2” of the second channel can be blind or through. In detail, the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F can be blind or through.

[0079] The first pin Pl and the second pin P2, in particular, extend from the fixed element F towards the movable element R. The first pin Pl and the second pin P2 are adapted to protrude laterally from the central body MC of the first link Ml towards the fixed element F and towards the movable element R.

[0080] The first end P2’ of the second pin P2 is arranged at least partly in the second portion C2” of the second channel, thus in the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F. The first end P2’ of the second pin P2 is movable within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F.

[0081] Specifically, each position of the plurality of positions of the second pin P2 is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F. In other words, the second pin P2 is configured to have the first end P2’ always arranged in the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F when the movable element R is moved close to / away from the first link. The first end P2’ is configured for the movement along the direction of extension Y-Y within the cavity Hl of the fixed element F in the movement of the second pin P2 among the plurality of positions.

[0082] In detail, the second pin P2 is movable within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F in the movement of the movable element R from the first position to the second position and vice versa. In other words, the second pin P2 is configured to move within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F when the movable element R is moved between the first position and the second position.

[0083] Specifically, each position of the plurality of positions of the second pin P2 is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F. In other words, at least one portion of the second pin P2 is always arranged within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F in each of the positions of the plurality of positions among which the second pin P2 is switchable.

[0084] In detail, the second pin P2 can be configured to have the first end P2’ always at least partly arranged within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F so that the fixed element F is stably kept at the first side of the first link. According to one aspect, each position of the second pin P2 is associated with an extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F. In each of the positions, the second pin P2 at least partly engages the second channel C2.

[0085] In detail, the extension of the second pin P2 within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F associated with each position is defined by the first end P2’. In other words, the first end of the second pin P2 is arranged within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F at each position of the second pin P2 and defines the extension associated with each position of the second pin.

[0086] At the position of maximum extension, the first end P2’ of the second pin P2 defines a maximum extension within the first cavity Hl. For example, the second pin P2 can be configured to fully engage the first cavity Hl, i.e. the second portion C2” of the second channel C2, at the position of maximum extension within the second channel C2 (close position of the movable element R). At the position of maximum extension within the second channel C2, the second pin P2 fully engages both the first portion C2’ and the second portion of the second channel C2 and juts out laterally to the first link Ml to connect to the rotatable element R.

[0087] Conversely, at the position of minimum extension, the first end of the second pin defines a minimum extension within the first cavity Hl of the fixed element F. The second pin P2 is configured to partly clear the first cavity Hl, i.e., the second portion C2” of the second channel C2, at the position of minimum extension within the second channel C2 (away position of the movable element R). In other words, the first cavity Hl, then the second portion of the second channel C2 is partly clear from the second pin P2 when the rotatable element R is moved away from the first link Ml. When the rotatable element R is moved close and adhered to the first link Ml, the second pin P2 fully engages the first cavity of the fixed element F.

[0088] According to one aspect, the cavities H1-H4 of the fixed element F are arranged in the following order along X-X: third cavity H3, first cavity Hl, fourth cavity H4, second cavity H2.

[0089] In accordance with any one of the described embodiments, one or more components of the modular element M, e.g., the links, fixed elements and rotatable elements are metallic, but it cannot, however, be ruled out that they may be made from other materials such as leather, plastic, etc., or a combination thereof.

[0090] Adjustable strap

[0091] This description also relates to an adjustable strap for watches comprising a plurality of central modules M. Each central module M comprises at least one modular element M in accordance with any one of the embodiments of this description. The strap may comprise a plurality of links as described above combined with another plurality of standard links M’ i.e., without rotatable element R. In such a case, each standard link M’ may comprise channels, at least two of which passing through for receiving by shape coupling as many pins the ends of which are intended to be inserted into two opposite lateral portions or fixed elements.

[0092] The strap comprises a second link M2 arranged consecutively to the modular element M. The second link M2 is arranged consecutively to the first link Ml of the modular element M.

[0093] The strap comprises a second lateral portion MF’ arranged at a first side LI of the first link Ml, and an additional lateral portion MF” or movable element R’ set alongside the second lateral portion MF’ and arranged at a second side L2 opposite the second link M2.

[0094] In addition, the strap comprises an additional first pin Pl extending from the second lateral portion MF’ towards the additional lateral portion MF” or movable element R’ and passing through an additional first through channel Cl formed in a third link.

[0095] Specifically, the second lateral portion MF’ is defined by a second fixed element F’ placed at the first side LI of the first link ML

[0096] The additional lateral portion MF” is defined by an additional fixed element F” arranged at the second side L2. The additional first pin Pl extends from the second fixed element F’ towards the additional fixed element F” or movable element R.

[0097] In use, in one embodiment, the strap 1 has:

[0098] - the second cavity H2, the first pin Pl and the first channel Cl of the second link M2 oriented coaxially with each other, and

[0099] - the second pin P2, the elastic means S, the second channel C2 of the first link Ml and the first hole 01 oriented coaxially with each other.

[0100] In one embodiment, the strap 1, in use, also has:

[0101] - the third cavity H3, the third pin P3 and the first opening Al oriented coaxially with each other, and / or

[0102] - the fourth cavity H4, the fourth pin P4 and the second opening A2 oriented coaxially with each other.

[0103] It should be specified that the links M’ set alongside the first link Ml could be entirely similar to the latter, thus allowing association with an additional rotatable element R’. Alternatively, the link M’ set alongside the first link Ml could be a standard link and therefore be associated with additional fixed elements F’, F”.

[0104] The operation of the strap 1 of the invention may be as follows.

[0105] When a user needs to widen or narrow the circumference of the strap 1 around the wrist, he or she grasps the rotatable element R and moves it away from the first link Ml to allow the second pin P2 to be disengaged from the second hole 02. At this point, the rotatable element R can be rotated around the axis Y-Y (transverse to the axis X-X) of the third pin P3, e.g. by 45° (Figure 5a). The second pin P2 is then free to slide off the first channel Cl of the second link M2 to uncouple the first link Ml from the strap 1 (Figure 5b). The first channel Cl of the second link M2 is thus free to receive a new link.

[0106] At this point, a new link can be coupled to the strap 1 by inserting the second pin P2 into the channel Cl of the second link M2 and, when finished, by rotating its own rotatable element R to engage it to the corresponding second pin P2. The first link Ml previously uncoupled from the strap 1 is finally re-coupled to the latter by inserting its own second pin P2 into the channel Cl of the new link M” (Figure 5c) and rotating the corresponding rotatable element R to the corresponding pin P2.

[0107] The present invention also relates to a watch comprising a modular element M and / or a strap 1 in accordance with any one of the described embodiments.

[0108] It has in practice been ascertained that the described invention achieves the intended objects, and in particular, the fact is emphasized that the modular element allows a strap to be adjusted in a very simplified manner even by inexperienced users.

[0109] The type of structural combinations of the modular element as well as of the strap are potentially infinite, and obviously a technician in the field, in order to meet contingent and specific needs, will be able to make numerous modifications and variations to the above-described examples of embodiments, all of which, however, are contained within the scope of protection of the invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1) Modular element (M) for adjustable strap (1) for watches comprising: a first link (Ml) configured to be associated with at least a second link (M2) arranged consecutively, the first link (Ml) having a lateral portion (MF) defining a first side (LI) of the first link (Ml), and a movable element (R) arranged at an opposite second side (L2) of the first link (Ml), a first pin (Pl) extending from the lateral portion (MF) towards the movable element (R) and passing through a first through channel (Cl) formed in the second link (M2), a second pin (P2) extending from the lateral portion (MF) to the movable element (R) through a second channel (C2) formed in the first link (Ml), the second pin (P2) being movable within the second channel (C2) to / from the lateral portion (MF).2) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second pin (P2) extends along a direction of extension (Y-Y) between a first end (P2’) arranged in the second channel (C2) and an opposite end (P2”) connected to the movable element (R).3) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first end (P2’) of the second pin (P2) is movable with respect to the first link (Ml) and to the lateral portion (MF) within the second channel (C2), the opposite end (P2”) of the second pin (P2) being fixed in a first hole (01) of the movable element (R).4) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first hole (01) of the movable element (R) is threaded, the opposite end (P2”) of the second pin (P2) being screwed within said first hole (01).5) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second pin (P2) is movable among a plurality of positions comprising a position of maximum extension of the second pin (P2) within the second channel (C2) and a position of minimum extension of the second pin (P2) within the second channel (C2), wherein each position of the plurality of positions of the second pin (P2) is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin (P2) within the second channel (C2).6) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first end (P2’) is configured for the movement along the direction of extension (Y-Y) within the second channel (C2) in the movement of the second pin (P2) among the plurality of positions, the extension associated with each position being defined by the mutual position between the first end (P2’) and the lateral portion (MF) of the first link (Ml).7) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first link (Ml) comprises elastic means (S) arranged between the second pin (P2) and the second channel (C2).8) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, when dependent on claim 5, whereinthe elastic means (S) are configured to counteract and / or promote the movement of the second pin (P2) within the second channel (C2) along the direction of extension (Y-Y).9) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein said elastic means (S) are configured to keep said movable element (R) normally attached to the second side (L2) of the first link (Ml) and / or the second pin at the position of maximum extension within the second channel (C2).10) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second channel (C2) has a shoulder (B) to counteract the axial movement of the elastic means (S) towards said movable element (R) and / or of the first end (P2’) of the second pin (P2) away from the lateral portion (MF).11) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second channel (C2) of the first link (Ml) is through.12) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first end (P2’) of the second pin (P2) has a head adapted to be coupled to a screwdriver for screwing the second pin (P2) within the first hole (01) of the movable element (R).13) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first pin (Pl) is: partly inserted into a second cavity (H2) formed in the lateral portion (MF) and locked therein, engageable in a second hole (02) formed in the movable element (R) in a removable manner.14) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second cavity (H2) of the lateral portion (MF) has a thread for the connection to the first pin (Pl), the first pin (Pl) being screwed within the second cavity (H2).15) Modular element (M) according to claim 13 or 14 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the movable element (R) is movable between a first position, wherein the second pin (P2) is in the position of maximum extension and the movable element (R) is moved close to the first link (Ml) and to the second link (M2), and a second position, wherein the second pin (P2) is in the position of minimum extension and the movable element (R) is moved away from the first link (Ml) and from the second link (M2) to allow to: disengage the first pin (Pl) from the second hole (02), slide the second link (M2) off the first pin (Pl) and, remove the second link (M2) from the strap (1).16) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first link (Ml) comprises a central body (MC) and a fixed element (F) arranged laterally to the central body (MC), the lateral portion (MF) of the first link (Ml) being defined by the fixed element (F).17) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the fixed element (F) has afirst cavity (Hl) defining at least partly said second channel (C2) of the first link (Ml), the first end (P2’) of the second pin (P2) being arranged at least partly within said first cavity (Hl) of the fixed element (F).18) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first end (P2’) of the second pin (P2) is movable within the first cavity (Hl) of the fixed element (F).19) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein each position of the plurality of positions of the second pin (P2) is associated with a non-zero extension of the second pin (P2) within the first cavity (Hl) of the fixed element (F).20) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, when dependent on claim 5, wherein the first end (P2’) is configured for the movement along the direction of extension (Y-Y) within the cavity (Hl) of the fixed element (F) in the movement of the second pin (P2) among the plurality of positions.21) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a third pin (P3) that extends from the fixed element (F) towards the first link (Ml) to be inserted into a first opening (Al) made in the central body (MC) of the first link (Ml), and / or a fourth pin (P4) that extends from the fixed element (F) towards the first link (Ml) to be inserted into a second opening (A2) made in the central body (MC) of the first link (Ml).22) Modular element (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the third pin (P3) is partly inserted into a third cavity (H3) made in the fixed element (F) and locked therein, and / or wherein the fourth pin (P4) is partly inserted into a fourth cavity (H4) made in the fixed element (F) and locked therein.23) Modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims 16 to 22, wherein the central body (MC) of the first link (Ml) comprise one or more elements () connected to each other having respective aligned through channels to define said second channel (C2) of the first link (Ml).24) Adjustable strap (1) for watches, comprising: a plurality of central modules (M) comprising at least one modular element (M) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least a second link (M2) arranged consecutively, a second lateral portion (MF’) arranged at a first side (LI) of the first link (Ml), and an additional lateral portion (MF”) or movable element (R’) set alongside said second lateral portion (F’) arranged at a second side (L2) opposite the second link (M2), an additional first pin (Pl) extending from the second lateral portion (MF’) towards said additional lateral portion (MF”) or movable element (R’) and passing through an additional first through channel (Cl) formed in a third link.25) Strap (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein:the second lateral portion (MF’) is defined by a second fixed element (F’) placed at the first side (LI) of the first link (Ml), and the additional lateral portion (MF”) is defined by an additional fixed element (F”) arranged at the second side (L2), and wherein the additional first pin (Pl) extends from the second fixed element (F’) towards the additional fixed element (F”) or movable element (R).26) Watch comprising at least one modular element (M) for adjustable strap (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 23.

Images