Coherent timer set

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for setting a reference time for the indicators (4, 5) of a synchronized wristwatch (200) by means of a synchronized table clock (100), which together with a wristwatch (200) forms a synchronization assembly (1000), the wristwatch (200) including a coupling mechanism (706) between the display gear train and the final gear train, an hour indicator (4) and a minute indicator (5) in which a reference position is defined, a rack (823) engaging with an hour wheel (808), the hour wheel (808) being integral with the hour indicator (4) and supporting an hour cam (802) having a notch for the tooth of a ratchet wheel, and a pawl (801) bearingly held on the hour cam (802) by a spring, the rack (823) being configured to advance in a clockwise direction of the hour wheel (808). The watch (200) includes a rack pinion (824) that drives and winds a rack (823), which ticks with each tooth during normal operation of the watch (200) when the watch (200) is not cooperating with the clock (100). The reference time setting of the watch (200) is performed from time to time by a first stage, during which a first displacement of the interface between the clock (100) and the watch (200) triggers placement in the reference position, the reference time setting of the indicators (4, 5) is performed, and the coupling mechanism (806) is disengaged, thereby allowing the rack (823) to drive the display gear train of the watch (200) in a counterclockwise direction for the required number of revolutions until the pawl (801) contacts the opening in the tooth of the ratchet wheel of the hour cam. The time setting mechanism controlled by the clock (100) then sets the time on the indicators (4, 5) of the watch (200) to the correct time in a clockwise direction by rewinding the rack (801), and then the coupling mechanism (806) is recoupled.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a synchronized timepiece assembly, the synchronized timepiece assembly including a clock and at least one wristwatch configured to be placed within a receptacle contained within the clock at a single transmission position, the synchronization assembly including a connection mechanism between the clock and each wristwatch when the wristwatch is placed within the receptacle at the transmission position.

[0002] The present invention relates to the rather specific field of synchronized clocks and watches, where each of these paired timers comprises a time reference for counting time and a display means for displaying the timer variables, and in particular these display means are arranged to enable a user to simultaneously view the display on the clock and the display on the watch. [Background technology]

[0003] Since 1800, Abraham-Louis Breguet has been designing synchronized clocks that allow the winding, setting and adjustment of a wristwatch that is designed to be synchronized with the clock, with no other constraints than that the wristwatch be placed on the clock.

[0004] These three functions (which are the largest number of known functions) are performed simultaneously, at a time determined by the clock's construction, generally once or twice a day. This is the case, for example, of the Breguet clock No. 128 and the associated wristwatch No. 5009 described in the book "The art of Breguet" by George Daniels. It is the moment of triggering the time setting that determines the accuracy of the time setting. This explains why this function was performed only once or twice a day in clocks from the 1800s, and every two hours in clocks from the 1990s. It should be noted that wristwatches, as stated in George Daniels' analysis, do not have hour correctors, apart from minute correctors, and therefore oblige the user to preadjust the time by a first rough time setting of around plus or minus 15 minutes, and the clock performs fine time settings as it passes.

[0005] To date, these types of functions are the only ones applied in some existing synchronized table clocks.

[0006] Some synchronized clocks permanently wind the automatic wristwatch barrel and set the minutes at a fixed time once or twice a day. In this type of clock, the barrel winding must be rapid to ensure that the unwound watch winds within a reasonable time.

[0007] Some synchronized clocks ensure the rate adjustment obtained from the time setting of the wristwatch.

[0008] The construction of these clocks results in several drawbacks: - if the watch is placed continuously on the clock, the clock will set its time periodically (every 2, 12 or 24 hours) and energise the time-setting mechanism unnecessarily; - if the watch is placed continuously on a clock and the winding is constant and rapid, the automatic barrels required in this case are subject to considerable wear; - When the user places the watch on the clock, if the watch is stopped and the time is not set, the user must wait for the next set time to pass due to the uncertain time setting; - when the user places the watch on the clock, the watch is stopped and, if winding is expected to be periodic with the time setting, winding does not take place before the passage to the next set time, with the result that the watch does not run and the pre-adjustment of the time plus or minus 15 minutes is lost; - when the user places the watch on a table clock, the watch is stopped and if winding is expected to be slow and constant, the watch will not reach full winding for several days; - if the user places the watch on a table clock, the watch will reach full winding more quickly if the watch is stopped and a fast and constant winding is expected, but if the watch is left stored on the table clock, this high speed will work against the sliding flange function of the barrel and cause it to wear out prematurely; -Only minute time setting function and winding are guaranteed, and it is difficult to provide or add other functions. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0009] [Non-Patent Document 1] The book "The art of Breguet" by George Daniels Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The present invention proposes to improve the functioning of synchronized clocks and watches by overcoming the drawbacks of the known techniques.

[0011] The object of the present invention is to develop an assembly formed by a clock and at least one watch, the assembly comprising: - Always ensures that the watch is optimally wound as soon as it is placed on the clock, - effecting time setting at the user's request, for example before the watch is taken off for wearing, -Ensures accurate time setting, e.g. to the exact second, -Enables perfect time setting even when the watch is stopped, Allows the communication of more information than just a single minute, e.g. seconds, minutes, hours, date, moon phase and / or age, day of the week, week, month, year, leap year, etc.

[0012] A clock is a truly autonomous timepiece and contains its own time reference as well as indicators of its own time and variables related to the complications it contains. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] To this end, the invention relates to a tuning assembly as claimed in claim 1.

[0014] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a synchronized timepiece assembly, which includes a synchronized table clock including a receptacle and at least one wristwatch placed in the receptacle, the connection between the table clock and the wristwatch being along two diagonal transmission lines, each transmission line including an actuator in the table clock, which is drivable in translation and / or rotation relative to a receiver in the wristwatch, which acts as an internal actuator and determines the nature of a function such as start / stop, time setting or winding, or transmits a certain amount of power to the watch mechanism, for example according to the driving rotation of a timer for time setting, or in particular according to the translation of the reciprocating motion, to wind the barrel or a specific mechanism. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic detail view with two such transmission lines in the same plane, each transmission line including a shaft consisting of a lower half shaft housed in a clock and an upper half shaft housed in a wristwatch, the control means being shown driving one of the two shafts. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2, showing a variant having two parallel shafts. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a detailed view showing the rotational driving of the upper half shaft by the lower half shaft due to the flat section cooperating with the slot. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a detailed view showing the translational drive of the upper half shaft by the lower half shaft due to the cooperation of the spring fingers with the grooves. [Figure 6] 4A and 4B are bottom and side views of a synchronized watch having two upper half shafts according to FIG. 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view detail of a particular embodiment of a first actuator and a second push-type actuator. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram of obtaining data on a clock for setting the time when required, described below as the sixth variant. FIG. 8 is similar to FIG. 1 and shows a clock whose movement is maintained by a weight and includes a conventional front display, and between two linear guide columns of the weight two transmission shafts are visible, each transmission shaft being arranged to drive an actuator in the upper part of the clock, near a receptacle for receiving a wristwatch. The transmission shaft at the far left of the diagram is the output of a differential mechanism, which calibrates the variables read on the clock, in this case for setting the time of the wristwatch. In FIG. 8 it can be seen that the hour indicator on the stopped wristwatch is at 10h10, while the instantaneous display on the clock is at 10h08. [Figure 9] Fig. 9 is a diagram of the acquisition of data on the clock for setting the time when required, which will be described below as the sixth variant. Fig. 9 is a detailed view of the top of Fig. 8 of the two actuators, the clock and the watch, in the receptacle. Fig. 9 shows the various indications of the watch superimposed, only showing the variation of the minute indication. The initial indication of the watch, 12h23, when the watch is placed on the receptacle is shown in dashed lines. The return arrow PESIAM in the counterclockwise direction indicates the forced return to a given reference position for the hour and minute indicators, here 12h00. The small arrows PE or PESAM of elementary steps in the clockwise direction indicate some of the two-minute steps that are successively imposed on the minute hand of the watch to bring it closer to the indication of the clock. The watch shows 10h10, thus completing four two-minute elementary steps and ready to immediately resume operation under the command of the clock when the clock reaches 10h10. [Figure 10]Fig. 10 shows a diagram of obtaining data on a clock for setting the time on demand, which will be described below as the sixth variant. Fig. 10 shows a diagram of a clock including a volute, the details of which can be seen in Fig. 11. The volute has 360 bearings and is driven by the movement of the clock at a speed of one revolution per 12 hours, through which a feeler spindle advances and reads the instantaneous values ​​of the clock. This feeler spindle includes a rack, which cooperates with a gear train arranged to drive a second actuator. More specifically, this gear train is the input gear train of the differential mechanism, the one output gear train of which is the transmission shaft at the very left of the figure and is arranged to drive the second actuator via an intermediate wheel. [Figure 11] Fig. 11. Obtaining data on a clock for setting the time on demand, described below as the sixth variant. [Figure 12] Fig. 12 is a diagram of obtaining data on a clock for setting the time on demand, described below as the sixth variant. Fig. 12 is a diagram similar to Fig. 10. A similar but less bulky embodiment has two spiral cams, one with 11 or fewer bearings and reading the hours, and the other with 31 or more bearings and reading the two minute steps. Similarly, each spiral cam is traversed by a feeler spindle, the rack of which constitutes the input of a differential mechanism correcting the difference in units. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram of a seventh variant of the reference time setting variant for the indicator. FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view of a part of the mechanism of a synchronized watch, which includes a hammer similar to a chronograph hammer, which includes a winding position and an active position, in which the hammer is held by a pawl and tensioned by a spring, and in which the hammer rests on the outer periphery of a first heart-shaped hour cam, forcing it to rotate to its minimum radius. This first heart-shaped hour cam is similar to that used in chronograph mechanisms and is supported by an hour wheel. A second truncated heart-shaped minute cam is supported by the minute indicator. The jumper bears in cooperation with a star wheel which is integral with the minute indicator. [Figure 14]Fig. 14 is a detail of Fig. 13, showing the hour cam including a substantially square cutout and the minute cam, the underside of which is heart-shaped. [Figure 15] Fig. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the mechanism of Fig. 13 in a coupled position, passing through the axis of the needle, the mechanism including a coupling clutch between the indicator gear train and the final gear train, and a friction spring. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a view similar to Figure 15, showing the same mechanism in the uncoupled position; [Figure 17] Fig. 17 is a detailed view of Figs. 13 and 14, showing the cooperation of the double jumper with the barrel pinion. [Figure 18] 18 is a diagram of a seventh variant of the reference time setting variant for the indicator. Fig. 18 is a schematic plan view of a Breguet chronograph coupling mechanism 1050 including a clamp, whose function is to ensure coupling and decoupling under the control of a column wheel, which controls the angular deviation of the clamp arms that opens and closes the clamp, and therefore the coupling or decoupling according to Figs. 16 and 15. [Figure 19] Fig. 19 is a schematic plan view of a part of the mechanism of a synchronization watch, the mechanism including a pawl with a pawl spring, a rack that meshes with the hour wheel and advances in a clockwise direction of the hour wheel with a click and is driven by a return spring, a rack pinion (or hour pinion), a first hour cam supported by the hour wheel and including an opening, a second minute cam supported by the minute display mobile body and including an opening or notch in the teeth of the ratchet wheel, and a jumper configured to cooperate with a star wheel that is integral with the minute display mobile body. [Figure 20] Fig. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the mechanism of Fig. 19 in the coupled position, passing through the axis of the needle, the mechanism including the coupling clutch between the indicator gear train and the final gear train, and the friction spring. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a view similar to Figure 20, showing the same mechanism in the uncoupled position; [Figure 22] 22 is a schematic plan view of a part of the mechanism of a synchronized watch, the mechanism including a corrector that matches the interface of the clock or another element that allows the transmission of a reciprocating motion, a rocker lever that can drive the teeth of a cannon pinion with a reciprocating motion, a jumper that maintains the position of the minute indicator in the interval of the drive function, and a star wheel with 30 teeth that is supported by the minute indicator in steps of 2 minutes. [Diagram 23] Fig. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the mechanism of Fig. 22 in the coupled position, passing through the axis of the hands, the mechanism including the coupling clutch between the indicator gear train and the final gear train, and the friction spring. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a view similar to Figure 23, showing the same mechanism in the uncoupled position; [Diagram 25] Fig. 25 is a detail of Fig. 22 showing the cooperation of the double jumper with the 15-tooth can-pinion, which, thanks to the double jumper and the gradation of the two support surfaces offset from the rocker lever arm, gives 30 stable positions. [Figure 26] 1 is a flow chart showing the cycle carried out between the clock and the wristwatch over a 12-hour period, with any time-setting requests by the user DMAH, and winding R, and time-setting operations MAH. [Figure 27]1, showing the clock at 10h09, with the receptacle still empty, and the watch displaying 8h17. The clock now comprises three actuators, a first one substantially at 4 o'clock on the watch, a second one substantially at 8 o'clock on the watch, and a third one arranged to cooperate with the crown of the watch at 3 o'clock. All the actuators are now arranged in a star shape around a receptacle constituted by a stretcher with pivoting moving parts. [Figure 28] 28 is a view similar to FIG. 27 showing the wristwatch inserted into the receptacle. [Figure 29] Diagram of the main watch setting and winding steps, visualized as a wristwatch on the left and a table clock on the right simultaneously. Figure 29 shows the watch as seen in Figure 28, ready for winding and time setting. [Diagram 30] Diagram of the main watch setting and winding steps, visualized on the left as a wristwatch and on the right as a table clock simultaneously. Fig. 30 shows the winding of a watch by rotation of a winding sleeve, which constitutes a third actuator and drives the crown of the watch, which is wound by DMAH on demand by the user, or periodically every 12 hours at a fixed time equivalent to 13 hours of battery life. [Diagram 31] Diagram of the main watch setting and winding steps, visualized simultaneously on the left side showing the wristwatch and on the right side the table clock. Fig. 31 shows the stopping of the wristwatch by the action of the stop lever on the balance of the resonator. The table clock controls this stopping of the wristwatch resonator by a first actuator at 4 o'clock, the decoupling of the hands from the gear train and the returning of the hands to the reference position selected here at 12h00. [Diagram 32]Diagram of the main clock setting and winding steps, visualized in the left part with the wristwatch and in the right part with the simultaneous display of the clock. Fig. 32 shows the displacement of the hands of the watch by jumping by a respective predetermined step value, chosen in this example as 3 minutes. This jumping is performed until the hands reach the position of the instantaneous time displayed by the clock, here 10h12 plus a step of 3 minutes, thus the 10h15n position. The clock, after reading the instantaneous time value on the clock's scroll(s) by the number of pulses necessary for the overall control of the hands, transmits this instantaneous time value to the watch. The watch is then ready to be restarted and only waits for the release of the watch's stop lever controlled by the clock. [Diagram 33] Diagram of the main clock setting and winding steps, visualized simultaneously as a wristwatch on the left and a clock on the right. Fig. 33 shows the starting of the watch by the release of the stop lever, when the clock has passed the 10h15 position. The watch is then timed with the highest accuracy and ready to be worn by the user. [Diagram 34] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the tuning assembly of FIGS. 27 and 28 with a clock according to the embodiment of FIG. 12. [Diagram 35] Schematic perspective view of the cooperation of three actuators of a table clock, the watch being placed on a pivoting stretcher forming a receptacle: a first push-type actuator is at 4 o'clock, a second push-type actuator is at 8 o'clock, and a third rotary actuator that drives the crown of the watch is at 3 o'clock. [Diagram 36] Schematic perspective view of the cooperation of three actuators of a table clock, the watch being placed on a pivoting stretcher forming a receptacle: a first push-type actuator is at 4 o'clock, a second push-type actuator is at 8 o'clock, and a third rotary actuator that drives the crown of the watch is at 3 o'clock. [Figure 37] 4 is a flow chart including the basic operations of the method of the first variant described below. [Figure 38] 4 is a flow chart including the basic operations of the method of the second variant described below. [Figure 39]4 is a flow chart including the basic operations of the method of the third variant described below. [Diagram 40] 4 is a flow chart including the basic operations of the method of the fourth variant described below. [Diagram 41] 10 is a flow chart including basic operations of a method of a fifth variant described below. [Diagram 42] 1 is a flow chart including the basic operations of a method of a sixth variant described below. [Diagram 43] 11 is a flow chart including the basic operations of the method of the seventh variant described below. [Diagram 44] 11 is a flow chart including basic operations of the method of the eighth variant described below. [Diagram 45] 11 is a flowchart including basic operations of a method of the ninth variant described below. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] The present invention relates to a synchronized timepiece assembly 1000, which includes a synchronized table clock 100 including a table clock hour display 104 and a table clock minute display 105, and at least one synchronized wristwatch 200 including a watch hour display 4 and a watch minute display 5, the synchronized wristwatch 200 being configured to be disposed in a single transmission position within a receptacle 150 contained within the table clock, in particular to a stretcher 670, and the synchronization assembly 1000 includes at least one connection mechanism between the table clock 100 and each wristwatch 200 when the wristwatch 200 is placed within the receptacle 150 in the transmission position.

[0017] According to the invention, the at least one connection mechanism includes at least two separate transmission lines, one for selecting the function to be performed or the display variable to be adjusted, and another for transmitting power or motion and / or transmitting pulses.

[0018] More particularly, at least one transmission line, and more particularly each transmission line, includes a shaft, and more particularly, this shaft at least rotates.

[0019] More particularly, but not exclusively, at least one of these shafts or each of these shafts is similar to Breguet clock No. 128 (G. Daniels: The Art of Breguet: page 277).

[0020] At least one such shaft, more particularly each shaft, is split into two half shafts between the clock 100 and the associated watch 200, and these two half shafts are arranged to drive together when the watch 200 is placed in a transmission position in a receptacle 150 on the clock 100, either in a direct drive, more particularly in a coaxial drive, or through an intermediate wheel or a gear train. The transmission between these half shafts is not described in detail here and any suitable drive mechanism, teeth, splines, coupling sleeves, friction bodies, etc. may be used. The half shafts may cooperate end-to-end, or inside each other, or tangentially with each other, or through an intermediate wheel or a gear train, etc.

[0021] These at least two transmission lines distribute different functions.

[0022] The invention is more particularly described with two transmission lines in the form of at least two shafts, namely a first selected shaft 1 and at least one second drive shaft 2. Naturally, some of the functions described below can be fragmented and handled by other further shafts.

[0023] The first selection shaft 1 transmits a function selection, one of a number of functions being a neutral / winding function that re-energizes the watch 200. This transmission is in particular of alternating functions spread over 360°, i.e. neutral-winding, date, hours, minutes, etc. The first selection shaft 1 corresponds to a selector, a mechanical controller or a column wheel for a chronograph or complicated watch.

[0024] The second drive shaft 2 ensures the transmission of forces, in particular repowering torques, in particular the winding of the barrel of the watch 200 from the clock 100 and / or the transmission of an adjustment or setting, in the form of a rotation angle, to the watch 200 based on a value provided by the clock 100 and / or provides a pulse to the watch's engine. The adjustment or setting may correspond to one of the sizes indicated by the watch. The adjustment or setting may also be an adjustment of the watch's resonator by means of a scale, the action of the hairspring on the axle, the pressure on a flexible blade, the adjustment of inertia, etc.

[0025] The first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 are separate from each other and, in one variant, may extend along parallel axes or may merge.

[0026] In a particular variant, the axes of the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 are coplanar.

[0027] In another particular variant, the axes of the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 intersect.

[0028] The invention allows the setting of the adjustment, in particular the time setting, of a watch 200 by means of at least two individual shafts 1 and 2, a first of which indicates the desired type of correction and the other of which indicates the correction value, at least one of which is dedicated to the function of repowering the watch, in particular rewinding the barrel.

[0029] The first shaft 1 and / or the second shaft 2 may be translationally and / or rotationally movable in different ways.

[0030] In one variant, the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 are rotationally movable.

[0031] In one variant, the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 are translatable.

[0032] In one variant, one of the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 is capable of rotational movement and the other is capable of translational movement.

[0033] In one variant, one of the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 is rotationally translatable and the other is translatable.

[0034] In one variant, one of the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 is rotationally translatable and the other is rotationally translatable.

[0035] In one variant, the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 are rotationally translatable.

[0036] Advantageously, the setting is sequential, starting from a neutral position where repowering is performed, followed, preferably after a specific predefined duration or under the action of the user, by at least one basic sequence that adjusts one of the variables displayed by the watch, or by the triggering of a specific function.

[0037] In particular, the watch adjustment settings are sequential, with each variable being adjusted independently of the others.

[0038] More specifically, this continuous time setting is performed by a dedicated mechanism in parallel with a conventional watch time setting mechanism.

[0039] More specifically, the continuous time setting is controlled by a clock. In particular, in a particular variant, the duration between two basic sequences is adjustable. Even more specifically, the respective duration between two basic sequences is adjustable.

[0040] Advantageously, the time defining the tempo of the basic sequence managed by the clock defines the moment (or signal) that triggers the start of the watch whose stop is already maintained by a stop mechanism 20, which includes in particular, but not limited to, a seconds hand stop mechanism 25 with a stop lever or the like. The exemplary embodiment described below includes, but is not limited to, a stop lever configured to cooperate with the inertial mass 15 of the resonator 10, in particular the balance, to block or release the balance.

[0041] More specifically, the adjustment setting or continuous time setting modifies, without limitation, all or some of the following displays: hours, minutes, date, day of the week, month and / or any other display.

[0042] The neutral position allows for repowering or winding of the watch, which winding is controlled by the watch.

[0043] This first shaft 1 and this second shaft 2 enable cooperation between a clock 100 and a wristwatch 200 as will be explained below.

[0044] The first shaft 1 includes a first lower half shaft 11 of the table clock 100 and a first upper half shaft 12 of the wristwatch 200 .

[0045] In the absence of the watch 200, i.e. when no watch 200 is placed on the table clock 100, and when the table clock 100 does not carry any watch 200, these two half shafts are intended to together constitute the first shaft 1. That is, the first lower half shaft 11 and the first upper half shaft 12 are each in a neutral position.

[0046] Similarly, the second shaft 2 includes a second lower half shaft 21 of the table clock 100 and a second upper half shaft 22 of the wristwatch 200 .

[0047] When the watch 200 is placed on the table clock 100, the first lower half shaft 11 and the first upper half shaft 12 on the one hand, and the second lower half shaft 21 and the second upper half shaft 22 on the other hand, coincide. When the first lower half shaft 11 and the first upper half shaft 12 are in the neutral position, the selection function is neutral / winding, and positioning of the watch is facilitated by indexing each half shaft independently in the neutral position. The half shafts are naturally indexed.

[0048] The clock 100 is configured to deliver a torque to a first shaft 1 in the presence of a wristwatch 200. The rotation of this first shaft 1 is regulated by a regulating mechanism, for example of the minute repeater regulator type.

[0049] Each watch 200 is configured to release or block the rotation of the second shaft 2 depending on the power level it has stored, in particular according to the winding of the barrel, for example according to a hysteresis defined by a power reserve mechanism. This rotation of the second shaft 2 is, in this particular case, transmitted to the winding of the barrel and ensures the winding of the barrel. In this neutral position, the watch 200 therefore always ensures the winding of the barrel within the defined limits.

[0050] The clock 100 comprises at least one control means 300 arranged to be operated by a user or controlled by the clock's time reference in order to rotate the first lower half shaft 11 and thus select a function of the first shaft 1.

[0051] When the watch 200 is placed on the clock 100 and the user requests the time setting by such control means 300, in particular a lever present on the clock 100, the adjustment or time setting of the watch 200 is carried out by a sequence of functions controlled by the clock 100 for adjustments to instantaneous values, for example the values ​​of date, hours, minutes and seconds. After the user's request, an adjustment sequence for the current values ​​is started, for example for a time setting sequence. Each sequence is started at a precise tempo defined by the time base of the clock 100.

[0052] Of course, instead of mounting the control means 300 on the clock 100, it is also possible to mount the control means 300 on the watch 200, or both the clock 100 and the watch 200 each comprise a control means 300. If the control means 300 is only on the watch, this allows the function to be locked as long as the watch 200 is not in the receptacle 150 in the transmitting position.

[0053] In the particular case where the tuning assembly 1000 is configured to continuously adjust the values ​​of the date, the hour, the minute and the second, several basic sequences follow each other.

[0054] During the first basic sequence, the clock 100 rotates the first shaft 1 to the date position and rotates the second shaft 2 by an angle corresponding to the instantaneous value of the date. The watch 200 recognises the rotation of the first shaft 1 to the date position and activates the stop lever, which stops the resonator and the watch, places the date, hour, minute and second indications in the zero position and applies the values ​​transmitted by the second shaft 2 to the date indication.

[0055] The term "indicator" as used herein means any movable display element known in timekeeping art, i.e., hands, rings, disks, cursors, flags, city or time zone indicators, moon phase indicators, leap year indicators, AM / PM indicators, day / night indicators, power reserve indicators, striking selectors, alarm indicators, calendar indicators, etc.

[0056] After a first predetermined duration D1, for example 2 minutes, the clock 100 triggers a second basic sequence. During this second basic sequence, the clock 100 rotates the first shaft 1 to the hour position and rotates the second shaft 2 by an angle corresponding to the instantaneous value of the hour. The watch 200 recognizes the rotation of the first shaft 1 to the hour position and applies the value transmitted by the second shaft 2 to its hour indicator 4.

[0057] After a second predetermined duration D2, for example 2 minutes, the clock 100 triggers a third basic sequence. During this third basic sequence, the clock 100 rotates the first shaft 1 to the minute position and rotates the second shaft 2 by an angle corresponding to the instantaneous minute value plus the value of the third predetermined duration D3, thereby isolating the third basic sequence from the next change of the basic sequence, which is the last setting before releasing the watch 200 from operation. The watch 200 recognizes the rotation of the first shaft 1 to the minute position and applies the value transmitted by the second shaft 2 to the watch minute indicator 5.

[0058] After a third predetermined duration D3, for example 2 minutes, the clock 100 returns the first shaft 1 to the neutral / winding position. The watch 200 recognizes the rotation of the first shaft 1 to the neutral / winding position, releases the stop lever, and the watch 200 is then adjusted, fully timed and starts exactly at that moment.

[0059] A playful and useful aspect of this arrangement is noted: in this example, a watch 200 presented on a table clock in an unwound state, stopped and untimed, is wound and fully timed, including the date, within 6 or 8 minutes (if the first sequence is started after a transitional duration D0 of 2 minutes). A particular option is to add a perpetual calendar to the table clock 100, in this case allowing the date of the watch 200 to be simply corrected upon request of the user at the control means 300.

[0060] More specifically, the clock 100 is a clock with a mechanical movement.

[0061] In one variant, the clock 100 includes means for receiving a signal from a time reference, such as a controlled radio signal, a GPS, an electronic clock, etc., converting the signal indicating the instantaneous time into the movement of a mechanical component, and transmitting the information to the wristwatch 200.

[0062] In one variant, all power and motion transmission between the clock 100 and the watch 200 is mechanical and / or magnetic.

[0063] In one variant, all power and motion transmission between the clock 100 and the watch 200 is mechanical.

[0064] In one variant, all power and motion transmission between the clock 100 and the watch 200 is magnetic.

[0065] In one variant, the transmission of power and / or motion is not carried out through the winding and time-setting rod of the watch.

[0066] More specifically, each half shaft 12, 22 included within the watch 200 is separate from the winding and time setting rods of the watch 200 when the watch 200 includes the winding and time setting rods.

[0067] In one variant, the transmission of power is not carried out through the winding and time-setting rod of the watch.

[0068] In one variant, the transmission of motion is not carried out through the winding and time setting rod of the watch.

[0069] The winding system does not require a sliding flange barrel, preventing barrel wear, and winding occurs in a few minutes when the watch 200 is placed on the clock 100, whenever necessary.

[0070] Since the adjustment settings, and in particular the time settings, are performed on demand, wear on the mechanism is limited when the watch 200 is stored for long periods on the clock 100. In these cases, the time settings can be triggered at regular intervals, for example once a week, under the control given by the time reference of the clock 100.

[0071] The present invention allows the creation of a synchronized clock with such useful and playful uses, adapted to the needs of the modern user, thus allowing a real development on a product known for two hundred years.

[0072] The rate of the clock 100, which is more stable and more accurate than the rate of the watch 200, keeps the watch 200 on time when the watch 200 is not being worn and corrects the watch 200 when required.

[0073] The excellent battery life of the clock 100 is provided for the watch 200 when the watch 200 is not being worn, allowing for example weekend wearing and weekday maintenance, with an ideal operating range.

[0074] Various variations of the synchronized timer assembly 1000 according to the present invention and various variations of the methods of use are described below.

[0075] Such a synchronizing assembly 1000 includes a synchronizing clock 100 and at least one synchronizing watch 200 configured to be placed in a receptacle 150 of the clock 100 in a single transmission position. The synchronizing assembly 1000 includes a connection mechanism including at least two individual transmission lines between the clock 100 and each watch 200 when the watch 200 is placed in the receptacle 150 in the transmission position.

[0076] The synchronized table clock 100 configured to repower and adjust the display and / or rate of at least one synchronized watch 200 includes at least one actuator and performs the repowering and / or display and / or rate adjustment of at least one synchronized watch 200 placed in the receptacle 150 at the transmission position.

[0077] The clock 100 includes at least one first all-or-nothing actuator 501 of the clock, which is movable between a rest position and an activated position so as to control the activation or deactivation of a mechanism included in the watch 200. The clock 100 also includes at least one other actuator 502, 503 of the clock, which actuator 502, 503 is configured to provide a series of pulses or transmit a mechanical torque to a receiver included in the watch 200.

[0078] More specifically, at least one first actuator 501 of the clock is also configured to provide a series of pulses to a receiver included in the watch 200 between a rest position and an activated position.

[0079] More specifically, at least one other actuator 502, 503 of the clock is an all-or-nothing actuator that is movable between a rest position and an activated position to control the activation or deactivation of a mechanism contained within the watch 200.

[0080] More specifically, at least one other actuator 502 , 503 of the clock is a second actuator 502 , which is configured to provide a series of pulses to a receiver included within the wristwatch 200 .

[0081] More specifically, at least one other actuator 502 , 503 of the clock is a third actuator 503 , which is configured to transmit a mechanical torque to a receiver included within the wristwatch 200 .

[0082] More specifically, at least one such third actuator 503 may, in a released position, be disengaged at a distance from the watch 200 placed in the receptacle 150 in the single transmission position, and, in an engaged position, be coupled to an operating means 270 or control rod included in the watch 200.

[0083] More specifically, at least one such third actuator 503 includes a sleeve 678 which, in an engaged position, is configured to cooperate with an operating means 270 or control rod included in the watch 200.

[0084] More specifically, the clock 100 includes a first power storage means 691, 693, in particular a weight, which is configured to power at least one movement 180 or 900 contained within the clock 100 and / or any mechanism specific to the clock 100.

[0085] More specifically, the clock 100 includes second power storage means dedicated to the transmission of power to at least one watch 200 placed in the receptacle 150. More specifically, these second power storage means are configured to drive in rotation a transmission shaft 683 supporting a worm 684 or a pinion, driving the pinion 677 or the worm, respectively, and to rotate the third actuator 503.

[0086] More specifically, the clock 100 is configured to continuously transmit power to the wristwatch 200 .

[0087] More specifically, the clock 100 is configured to transmit power to the wristwatch 200 in steps.

[0088] More specifically, the clock 100 comprises at least one movement 180, which drives at least one spiral cam 601, 610, 620, the angular position of which characterizes the instantaneous value of a timekeeping variable. The clock 100 also comprises at least one feeler spindle 602, 630, 640, which bearably cooperates with the outer circumference of the spiral cam 601, 610, 620 and is configured to read out the instantaneous value of the timekeeping variable. Each feeler spindle 602, 630, 640 comprises a rack 603, 633, 643, which is configured to cooperate with a gear train configured to drive a second actuator. More specifically, this gear train is the input gear train of the differential mechanism 680 , and the output gear train of the differential mechanism 680 is configured to drive the second actuator 502 .

[0089] More specifically, the clock 100 includes at least one electromechanical or electronic movement configured to control the movement of an output movable body configured to drive the second actuator 502.

[0090] More specifically, the second actuator 502 includes a cam 684 which includes a plurality of lamps configured to push and pull a second control rod 512 contained within the second actuator 502, which is returned towards the second cam 684 by a second elastic return means 513, so as to impart a reciprocating motion to the second control rod 512 for setting the time of the watch 200.

[0091] More specifically, the second actuator 502 comprises a crank-connecting rod configured to push and pull a second control rod 512 contained within the second actuator 502, imparting to the second control rod 512 a reciprocating motion for setting the time of the watch 200. In one variant, this second control rod 512 is returned by a second elastic return means 513.

[0092] More specifically, the clock 100 comprises a first transmission shaft 682 which drives a first actuator 501 of the clock, the first transmission shaft 682 being configured to push or pull a first rod 511 of this first actuator 501 of the clock and to control the stopping or releasing of the resonator 10 of the wristwatch 200 or of the tourbillon or carousel which supports this resonator. More specifically, this first transmission shaft 682 is configured to drive a first control cam 686 which is included in this first actuator 501 of the clock. This first control cam 686 more specifically comprises a plurality of lamps.

[0093] More specifically, the clock 100 includes means for adjusting the time to a reference time and trigger means which trigger a movement sequence of the actuators 501, 502, 503 when, during the transmission position, the time displayed by the clock 100 becomes equal to this reference time when the receptacle 150 is occupied by the wristwatch 200.

[0094] More specifically, the clock 100 includes means for controlling the rewinding of the actuators 501, 502, 503 when the user removes the watch 200 from the receptacle 150 during a power re-apply and / or display and / or pace adjustment cycle.

[0095] More specifically, the clock 100 includes means for periodically triggering a power re-apply cycle to the wristwatch 200 placed in the receptacle 150 according to a predetermined period of time, and means for limiting the power re-apply cycles for a power reserve of a predetermined value, the power reserve being greater than the predetermined period of time.

[0096] More specifically, the clock 100 includes a manual control means that is manipulated by a user and configured to control the re-powering and / or execution of a display and / or timing cycle of the wristwatch 200 placed in the receptacle 150 at the transmission position.

[0097] More specifically, the clock 100 includes a stop control mechanism 120 configured to convert step-by-step time setting control performed by a user or the clock 100 into a sequence, the first step of which is an operation to control the stop and / or decoupling mechanism 20 of the display included in the synchronized watch 200.

[0098] More specifically, the stop control mechanism 120 is configured to control the movement of the transmission line, identify the time setting operation, and control the transmission of a pulse or torque to a stop mechanism 20 contained within the watch 200.

[0099] Advantageous, non-limiting varieties of synchronized watch 200 are described below: a heartpiece and hammer version, a pawl and dual cam version, and a pawl, rack and dual cam version.

[0100] These watches share a common feature.

[0101] In both versions of the watch, the synchronized watch 200 includes at least one power storage barrel that powers at least one resonator 10 contained within the watch 200. The watch 200 includes a display gear train and a final gear train.

[0102] To perform the time setting, it is necessary to use a coupling mechanism or / and a resonator stop mechanism. To this end, for all the time setting devices and methods presented herein, the watch 200 either includes a stop mechanism 20 arranged to stop the operation of the resonator 10, or a coupling mechanism allowing the display to be separated from the final gear train, or includes both such a stop mechanism 20 and such a coupling mechanism.

[0103] The coupling clutch in fact allows the rotation of the indicators, in particular the hands, independent of the final gear train when it is open, and the drive of the indicators or hands when it is closed, whether this rotation of the hands is for displacing these indicators to a given reference time, or for displacing them instantaneously towards an exact time (step-by-step time setting, or relative time setting, or permanent time setting), or for displacing an offset (versions with a seconds signal).

[0104] The use of the stop mechanism 20, including the seconds hand stop mechanism 25, especially by means of a stop lever, is necessary in some time setting modes, such as permanent time setting. The stop mechanism 20 is advantageous in the stepwise time setting mode, where the stop mechanism 20 allows starting at the 0 seconds signal, or similarly in the relative time setting mode, where the user sees that the inertial mass 15 of the resonator 10, and in particular the balance, is stopped during time setting. In these two time setting modes, the coupling clutch alone can ensure starting the hands without stopping the balance. In this case, the seconds indication is random ±30s.

[0105] The watch 200 conventionally includes at least one hour indicator 4, one minute indicator 5, and / or at least any other indicators 3.

[0106] The watch 200 includes at least one internal mechanism that can be enabled or disabled by an all-or-nothing actuator of the clock 100, and the watch 200 includes at least one receiver capable of receiving a series of pulses or mechanical torque coming from the actuator of the clock 100.

[0107] In the Heartpiece and Hammer versions, the watch 200 includes a reset mechanism 500 configured to return at least one such indicator 3, 4, 5 to a predefined reference position. This document deals primarily with the example of a reference position at 12:00. Any other reference position is possible, e.g. 10:10, etc.

[0108] The reset mechanism 500 is configured to return at least one, more particularly, but not exclusively, each of the indicators 3, 4, 5 of the watch 200 to its reference position. For this purpose, the reset mechanism 500 in particular comprises, for at least one indicator 3, 4, 5, at least one heart piece 401, 702, 703 which rotates together with the associated indicator 3, 4, 5, and the reset mechanism 500 comprises at least one hammer 402, 701 which is configured to bearably cooperate with the heart piece 401, 702, 703 under the pressure of a spring when the hammer 402, 701 is released by activation of the reset mechanism 500. This hammer 402, 701 is returned by the reset mechanism 500, which during normal operation has the property of moving the hammer 402, 701 away from the heart piece 401, 702, 703.

[0109] More specifically, the watch 200 includes a watch first actuator 901 which is actuated by the clock 100 and controls the movement of at least one hammer 402, 701 and is configured to position at least one display 3, 4, 5 within a predetermined reference position by cooperation of the hammer 402, 701 and the heart piece 401, 702, 703 for each adjusted timekeeping variable, the heart piece 401, 702, 703 being supported by a corresponding display, more specifically by a pinion.

[0110] More specifically, the hammer 402 or 701 is unique and common to all heart pieces 701, 702, 703 contained within the watch 200 and adjusts the display regarding various corresponding watch variables.

[0111] More specifically, the watch 200 includes such a stop mechanism 20 and a first actuator 901 of the watch, which is actuated by the clock 100 and is configured to control this stop mechanism 20 and to block or release the operation of the resonator 10 of the watch 200 and / or the decoupling mechanism of the display of the watch 200.

[0112] More specifically, a first actuator 901 of the watch is configured to ensure the rewinding of the hammer 402, 701.

[0113] More specifically, the stop mechanism 20 comprises a seconds hand stop mechanism 25 including a stop lever which is in bearing cooperation with the inertial mass 15 of the resonator 10 in a blocking position and which is configured to remain at a constant distance from the inertial mass 15 during normal operation of the resonator 10.

[0114] More specifically, the watch 200 comprises at least one operating means 270 or control rod capable of cooperating with an actuator of the clock 100 in the engaged position.

[0115] More specifically, the watch 200 includes manual control means configured to be handled by a user and for controlling the execution of a power re-on and / or display adjustment and / or running adjustment cycle of the watch 200 when the watch 200 is placed in the receptacle 150 in the transmission position, and in particular the watch 200 includes at least one control means 300 accessible to the user for controlling the execution of cyclic winding and / or the execution of automatic time setting.

[0116] More specifically, the watch 200 includes a watch second actuator 902 which operates in a reciprocating motion and drives a minute indicator 5 of the watch 200 with a given step value, and through this minute indicator 5 is capable of indirectly driving an hour indicator 4 of the watch 200.

[0117] The watch 200 is configured to correct the indicator in steps with a predetermined value, for example 2 minutes correction steps, which are sub-multiples of an hour, i.e. 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 6 minutes, 10 minutes, 12 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes. The watch 200 comprises a cannon or minute wheel, which is precisely positioned thanks to a star wheel, which has 30 teeth, 15 teeth or a number of teeth corresponding to the number of correction steps selected per hour.

[0118] The watch 200 advantageously comprises at least one first upper selection half shaft 11 and at least one second upper drive half shaft 12, the watch 200 being configured to recognize the movement of the selection transmission line or the drive transmission line at the time setting end position, at which the first upper half shaft 12 is configured to activate the stop lever of the stop mechanism 20 and release the decoupling mechanism of the resonator 10 and / or the display and allow the watch 200 to operate.

[0119] More specifically, watch 200 includes at least one safety mechanism that prevents an overloaded barrel spring from breaking, the safety mechanism including a sliding flange or power reserve measuring mechanism that prevents unnecessary or damaging winding of the barrel.

[0120] More specifically, the watch 200 includes displays 3, 4, 5 that are configured to pivot in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, each of the displays being associated with a pawl that is configured to block the display being considered when switching from a reference position or a ready position adjacent to the reference position.

[0121] More specifically, the reference and / or ready positions and the blocking positions of the nails are adjustable.

[0122] More specifically, the watch 200 includes an interface configured to drive at least one such indicator 3, 4, 5 in a counterclockwise rotation and to wind the barrel during such rotation in the counterclockwise direction.

[0123] The interface is advantageously configured to drive a gear train that, in addition to rotating at least one display 3, 4, 5 in a counterclockwise direction, manually winds at least one barrel by means of a pawl mechanism, the pawl mechanism being external to the final gear train contained within the watch 200.

[0124] In one variant, the final gear train of the watch 200 includes a pawl mover configured to wind at least one barrel during counterclockwise rotation.

[0125] The watch 200 advantageously includes a time-setting friction body that may enable the transmission of torque by winding, or includes a coupling mechanism instead of a time-setting friction body.

[0126] More specifically, the watch 200 includes at least one cannon-pinion coupling mechanism that is configured to couple or decouple the displays 3, 4, 5. In particular, this coupling mechanism 706 between the display gear trains 705, 707, 708 and the final gear train 710 includes a friction spring 709.

[0127] More specifically, the watch 200 comprises a minute indicator 5 configured to pivot in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, and a pawl configured to unlock the minute indicator 5 when switching it to the ready position and to block the minute indicator in the reference position. The watch 200 advantageously also comprises a friction mechanism configured to enable and continue rewinding after this blocking during counterclockwise rotation.

[0128] The watch 200 includes, in particular, a hammer 701, which is movable between a winding position and an effective position, in which the hammer 701 is held by a pawl and tensioned by a spring, and in which the hammer 701 rests on the outer periphery of a first heart-shaped hour cam 702 supported by an hour wheel 708 and is configured to force the first heart-shaped hour cam 702 to rotate to a minimum radius. The watch 200 also includes a star wheel supported by the minute display mobile body, which cooperates with jumpers 704, 7040 to maintain the respective display positions in regular steps.

[0129] The watch 200 also includes a second truncated heart-shaped minute cam 703, which is supported by a minute indicator 705 and can ensure the minute display position precisely.

[0130] In either version of the watch, the tuning assembly 1000 advantageously includes a control mechanism for controlling the placement of the display at a reference position. More specifically, this control mechanism includes at least one column wheel 840.

[0131] More specifically, the watch 200 includes a function controller which can occupy at least two positions, a first position corresponding to the start of the function and in which the controller is configured to control the decoupling of the final gear train and to stop the inertial mass 15 of the resonator 10, and a second position corresponding to the end of the function and in which the controller is configured to release the coupling clutch and the balance.

[0132] In one variant, the function controller can occupy an intermediate position between the first and second positions in which the controller controls the winding of the hammer.

[0133] In one alternative, the function controller is integrated into the watch 200 and includes either a column-wheel type rotary controller controlled by an interface with two to five continuously stable positions, or a shuttle type reciprocating controller controlled by an interface with two continuously stable positions.

[0134] In another alternative, the function controller is external to the watch 200 and housed within the clock 100, and the watch 200 includes only a reciprocating cam that is controlled by the interface and returns to rest by default, and includes a stable rest position and 1 to 3 controlled positions.

[0135] In one variant, the function controller is of the three-position column wheel type and is configured to control three rocker levers, which are configured to control or are part of a mechanism for controlling a coupling clutch, a stop lever and one or more hammers. The rocker levers are mounted on a column of the column wheel and are configured to be activated when required. The different positions of the column wheel are initial and final positions, with the coupling clutch activated, the stop lever deactivated and the hammer wound up, a position back to a reference time, for example 12:00, with the coupling clutch deactivated, the stop lever activated and the hammer released, and a timed position, with the coupling clutch deactivated, the stop lever activated and the hammer wound up.

[0136] In one variant, the function controller includes a three-level spiral cam located in the clock 100 and configured to control a reciprocating cam in the wristwatch 200 via a synchronization interface to control the coupling clutch, the stop lever and one or more hammers, and the different positions of the spiral cam are initial and final positions where the coupling clutch is active, the stop lever is inactive and the hammer is wound up, a position where the coupling clutch is inactive, the stop lever is active, the hammer is released and returns to a reference time, for example 12:00, and a time setting position where the coupling clutch is inactive, the stop lever is active and the hammer is wound up.

[0137] A variation of the wristwatch may be used for winding by rotation of the indicator to a reference position under the action of a clock. The wristwatch includes a pawl and at least two cams.

[0138] In this variant, the watch 200 includes at least one power storage barrel that powers at least one resonator 10 contained within the watch 200, a display gear train, and a final gear train.

[0139] The watch 200 includes either a stop mechanism 20 configured to stop operation of the resonator 10, or a coupling mechanism allowing the display to be separated from the final gear train, or includes both such a stop mechanism 20 and such a coupling clutch mechanism.

[0140] The watch 200 comprises at least one display 3 , 4 , 5 , in particular at least one hour display 4 and one minute display 5 .

[0141] The watch 200 includes at least one receiver capable of receiving a series of pulses or mechanical torque from an actuator of the clock 100 .

[0142] The watch 200 includes a transmission line capable of driving the display in a counterclockwise direction, a pawl 801, and at least one first hour cam 802, which is supported by an hour wheel 808 and includes an opening 8030 or notch 831 in the teeth of the ratchet wheel that corresponds to a reference position of the display.

[0143] More specifically, the watch 200 includes a first hour cam 802 supported by an hour wheel 808 and including an opening 8020, a second minute cam 803 supported by a minute display movable body 805 and including an opening 8030 or notch 831 in the teeth of a ratchet wheel, and a jumper 804 which cooperates with a star wheel supported by the minute display movable body 805 and is configured to maintain each display position according to predetermined regular steps.

[0144] More specifically, the watch 200 includes an interface configured to drive at least one of the indicators 3, 4, 5 in a counterclockwise rotation to wind a barrel coil, and the watch 200 also includes a final gear train including a pawl mover configured to enable winding of the at least one barrel during counterclockwise rotation.

[0145] More specifically, the interface is configured to rotate at least one display 3, 4, 5 in a counterclockwise direction as well as to drive a gear train that manually winds at least one barrel by means of a pawl mechanism external to a final gear train contained within the watch 200.

[0146] More specifically, the watch 200 includes a time-setting friction body that may enable the transmission of torque by winding, or includes a coupling mechanism instead of a time-setting friction body.

[0147] Another variation of the watch includes a pawl, a rack and at least two cams. In this version of the pawl, rack and double cam, the watch 200 includes a pawl 801, a rack 823 and an hour rack pinion 824, the rack 823 being arranged to mesh with the hour wheel 808 and to rattle in a clockwise direction from the hour wheel 808 and driven by a return spring 825. The watch 200 includes two cams, namely at least one first hour cam 802 supported by the hour wheel 808 and including an opening 8020, and a second minute cam 803 supported by the minute display mobile body 805 and including an opening 8030 or a notch 831 in the teeth of the ratchet wheel. The watch 200 includes a jumper 804, which cooperates with a star wheel supported by the minute display mobile body 805 and is arranged to maintain each display position according to a predetermined regular step.

[0148] The rack pinion 824 is configured to drive and wind the rack 823, which ticks along with each tooth during normal operation of the watch 200 when the watch 200 is not cooperating with the clock 100.

[0149] The watch 200 also includes a coupling mechanism 806 between the display gear trains 805 , 807 , 808 and the final gear train 810 .

[0150] The synchronisation assembly 1000 comprises an interface between the clock 100 and the watch 200, which is decoupled by actuating the coupling mechanism 806 towards the decoupling position, thereby allowing the rack 823 to drive the hour and minute gear train of the watch 200 in a counterclockwise direction, the required number of revolutions, until the pawl 801 contacts the opening 8020 of the first hour cam 802 and is blocked in the opening 8030 of the ratchet teeth of the second minute cam 803, a few minutes before the reference time corresponding to a predetermined reference position of the indicators 3, 4, 5 of the watch 200. This contact corresponds to the last few minutes before this reference time is reached, this block corresponding to the reference display position.

[0151] The time-setting mechanism controlled by the clock 100 is arranged to set the time on the indicators 4, 5 of the watch 200 in a clockwise direction towards the correct time by rewinding the rack 823.

[0152] The interface between the clock 100 and the watch 200 is further configured to reconnect the final gear train and the display gear train by coupling the coupling mechanism 806 to rewind the rack 823 or complete the rewinding of the rack 823.

[0153] The cooperation between the jumper 804 and the star wheel makes it possible to maintain the indication at each step and to rewind the rack 823 without losing this indication.

[0154] The star wheel supported by the minute indicator 5 is either a 30-tooth star wheel which cooperates with a simple 1-tooth jumper 804, or a 15-tooth minute barrel pinion which cooperates simultaneously with one tooth of a double jumper 8040 which contains 2 teeth, or which contains a number of teeth corresponding to a predetermined integer number of steps contained in an hour.

[0155] The coupling mechanism 806 advantageously includes a friction spring 809 .

[0156] More specifically, this coupling mechanism 806 is a chronograph coupling mechanism including a clamp 821, the function of which is to ensure coupling and decoupling under the control of a column wheel 840, which controls the angular deviation of the arms of the clamps 821, 822 which open and close the clamps, which correspond respectively to decoupling or coupling.

[0157] Like the Heartpiece and Hammer versions, the tuning assembly 1000 includes a control mechanism, internal or external to the watch 200, that controls the placement of the indicator into a reference position.

[0158] More specifically, this function controller is capable of occupying at least two positions, a first position corresponding to the start of the function, in which the controller is configured to control the decoupling of the final gear train and to stop the resonator balance, and a second position corresponding to the end of the function, in which the controller is configured to release the coupling clutch and the balance.

[0159] More specifically, the function controller is integrated into the watch 200 and includes either a column-wheel type rotary controller 840 controlled by an interface with two to five continuously stable positions, or a shuttle type reciprocating controller controlled by an interface with two continuously stable positions.

[0160] More specifically, the function controller is external to the watch 200 and is housed within the clock 100, and the watch 200 is controlled by the interface and includes only a reciprocating cam that returns to rest by default, a stable rest position, and controlled positions 1 to 3.

[0161] More specifically, the function controller includes a spiral cam and a two position cam.

[0162] In a first particular variant, called stepwise time setting, the synchronization assembly 1000 is configured to allow stepwise time setting. More precisely, this synchronization assembly 1000 includes a synchronization table clock 100 and at least one associated synchronization watch 200, and is designed to perform the following functions: - starting a stopped watch when it is placed on the clock; - Winding the watch in a manner that ensures a minimum battery life of 12 hours when the watch is removed from the clock; - keeping the watch in working order while it is on the clock; - setting the time on the watch within plus or minus 15 seconds when the watch is placed on the clock or on request; -Keeping a watch on time as long as it is on a clock; - Making it possible to disable the function so that a stopped watch can be stored on the clock.

[0163] In this first variant, the step-by-step time setting may be performed upon user request to the control means 300 and / or automatically, i.e. controlled by the clock 100, by a mechanism connected in particular to the rotation of the displays of the clock 100, in particular but not exclusively the clock hour display 104 and the clock minute display 105. The control performed by the clock 100 may be cyclical or connected to an auxiliary mechanism set by the user, called an alarm-type mechanism similar to an alarm mechanism. This control performed by the clock 100 is only executed when the watch 200 is present in the receptacle 150 in the transmitting position.

[0164] Time setting is important to the user unless, for demonstration purposes, the watch 200 is not fully wound, and time setting is generally continuous until the watch 200 is re-wound, or more generally, re-powered. This specification will simplify by using the terms "winding" or "rewinding" for any powering or re-powering, respectively.

[0165] The watch 200 conventionally comprises indicators 3, 4, 5, in particular but without limitation a watch hour indicator 4 and a watch minute indicator 5. The drawing shows a non-limiting variant in which these indicators are hands.

[0166] More specifically, the control performed by the clock 100, or the action of the user on the control means 300, has the first effect of placing one of the transmission lines in a position corresponding to a time setting, whereby one of the transmission lines can transmit to the time setting mechanism inside the watch 200 the movement(s) necessary to arrive precisely at the display of the current time.

[0167] The invention will be described below in non-limiting embodiments. In a non-limiting embodiment, one of the transmission lines between the clock and the watch includes a first actuator 501 of the clock, which is configured to cooperate with a first actuator 901 of the watch to control the start or stop of the watch, and the other of these transmission lines includes a second actuator 902 of the watch, which incrementally brings about a positioning movement, in particular a second actuator 502 of the clock, which is configured to cooperate with a push piece or the like. In another embodiment, these push pieces may be combined. In another embodiment, another transmission line includes a third actuator 503 of the clock, which is configured to cooperate with one of the actuators of the watch.

[0168] The wristwatch 200 comprises a resonator 10 including at least one inertial mass 15, the present description being concerned with the most common case of a balance-hairspring type resonator, in which the inertial mass 15 is a balance.

[0169] The watch 200 comprises a stop mechanism 20 designed in particular to stop the operation of the resonator 10 by pressing an arm or a leaf spring or another actuator on the inertial mass 15 or on a suitable element of the resonator. More specifically, this stop mechanism 20 is a seconds hand stop mechanism 25 including a stop lever.

[0170] The clock 100 includes a stop control mechanism 120 configured to convert step-by-step time setting control performed by a user or the clock 100 into a sequence, the first step of which is a control operation of the stop mechanism 20 of the wristwatch 200.

[0171] The stop control mechanism 120 of the clock 100 is configured to control the movement of one of the transmission lines, to identify the time setting operation, and to control the transmission of a pulse or torque to the stop mechanism 20 of the watch 200 .

[0172] The time setting sequence is as follows: - stopping the resonator 10, in particular the balance of the watch 200, in order to set the time, and returning the indication of the watch 200 instantaneously to a reference position, in particular 12:00, - the hour indicator 4 and the minute indicator 5 of the watch 200 then reach, in successive steps, a restart indication position which corresponds to the exact time of the moment plus the value of at least one further step imposed by the mechanism, in particular a step of two minutes; Once the next two minutes have passed, i.e. at the moment corresponding to the restart indication position just reached, the resonator 10 of the watch, and in particular the balance 15, is released by the stop mechanism 20 of the watch 200, and in particular by its seconds hand stop mechanism 25.

[0173] For this purpose, the watch 200 recognizes the movement of the transmission line between the clock 100 and the watch 200 in the time setting position, and a first actuator 901 of the watch (in particular a push piece or the like) activates a stop lever of the seconds hand stop mechanism 25 which stops the resonator 10 and the watch 200. This first actuator 901 of the watch is advantageously also a mechanism which controls at least one hammer or the like, which places the hour indicator 4 and the minute indicator 5 of the watch 200 in a reference position by cooperating the hammer with a heart piece supported by a cannon pinion for each timekeeping variable to be adjusted.

[0174] More specifically, therefore, the step-by-step time settings include the sequence of steps described herein, with the step values ​​being in no way limiting.

[0175] During a time setting command given to the control means 300 by the user or by the clock 100 itself, the control means 300, or the timepiece movement 900 contained in the clock 100, activates the stop control mechanism 120, which instantly controls the stop mechanism 20 of the wristwatch 200 through the first push-piece 901.

[0176] The resonator 10 is then stopped, and in the particular case presented here the inertial mass 15 is stopped.

[0177] The watch 200 comprises at least one display 3, 4, 5. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present description relates to the setting of a watch hour display 4 and a watch minute display 5.

[0178] The watch 200 comprises a reset mechanism 500 which is configured to return at least one indicator 3, 4, 5 of the watch, in particular the watch hour indicator 4 and the watch minute indicator 5, to a reference position, in particular for example to a position of the reference position, in particular 12h00, i.e. 12:00, or, as shown in figures 27 to 33, to the position 10h10, i.e. 10:10, or any other value. Unless otherwise specified, in this specification the reference position is this reference position 12h00, i.e. 12:00.

[0179] More specifically, this reset mechanism 500 is designed to return each of the indicators 3, 4, 5 of the watch to this reference position.

[0180] In a non-limiting embodiment, the reset mechanism 500 includes, for each indicator 3, 4, 5, a heart piece 401, 702, 703 that rotates together with the indicator 3, 4, 5, and the reset mechanism 500 includes at least one hammer 402, 702 configured to bearably cooperate with the heart piece 401, 702, 703 during activation of the reset mechanism 500. The hammer 402, 701 is preferably returned by a hammer spring 403 that has a tendency to move the hammer 402, 701 away from the heart piece 401, 702, 703 in normal operation.

[0181] In a particular variant, the hammer 402 or 701 is unique and common to all the heart pieces 401, 702, 703 contained within the watch 200 and adjusts the various timekeeping variables.

[0182] Therefore, the stop mechanism 20 controls the resetting of the displays at the same time as stopping the wristwatch 200 by activating the reset mechanism 500, and returns each of the displays 3, 4, 5 to their reference positions.

[0183] Therefore, the displays 3, 4, 5 of the wristwatch 200 instantly assume a reference display position, for example the 12:00 position.

[0184] Another transmission line is then driven by the clock to impose a particular display on the watch, not continuously but in steps. This other transmission line includes a second actuator 902 of the watch, which now operates in a reciprocating motion. This non-limiting embodiment is one of the possible forms of controlling the time of the watch.

[0185] This second actuator 902 of the watch then causes the table clock 100 to drive the minute indicator 5 of the watch by a step of a given value, for example 2 minutes, thus indirectly driving the hour indicator 4 of the watch through the minute indicator 5 of the watch, until the indication on the watch corresponds to the resumed indication position corresponding to the momentary exact time. This momentary exact time is the value of the momentary indication visible on the table clock 100 plus at least one further step, thus here 2 minutes.

[0186] This mechanism works in the same way as a date corrector. The watch 200 has a corrector connected to the minute mobile, and the clock 100 activates the second actuator 902 of the watch, which presses this corrector the number of times necessary to reach the instantaneous time plus the value of the step, here 2 minutes. This linear movement is similar to the action of a bicycle pump. The reference points on the clock are sensed by the hour and minute volutes conventionally included in the clock, as is done by the minute repeater mechanism when required.

[0187] The step of two minutes is a non-limiting example, the number of steps to be selected for the step of two minutes in this example is a variable between 0 and 359 steps (60 / 2 x 12). During this stage, the cannon or minute wheel of the watch is precisely positioned thanks in particular, but not exclusively, to a star wheel with 30 teeth. The advantageous case of a star wheel with 15 teeth is given below. More generally, the cannon or minute wheel of the watch 200 is precisely positioned by the combination of a star wheel integral with the cannon or minute wheel and a jumper with one or more teeth, the number of teeth of this star wheel and the number of teeth of this jumper together defining the value of a given step.

[0188] The operation of the first actuator 901 of the watch can be used to ensure the rewinding of the hammer 402, 701.

[0189] The clock 100 then waits until the next two minutes for the next passage and at this exact moment, which corresponds to the already set restart display position, releases the stop lever by means of the first push-piece 901, thus allowing the watch to run on exact time. Thanks to this stop of the seconds hand, this time setting is very accurate.

[0190] In fact, this same passage through the next 2 minutes has the effect of modifying the state of the stop control mechanism 120 and controlling the movement of the start / stop transmission line to identify the time setting end operation and control the transmission of a pulse or torque to the stop mechanism 20 of the watch 200.

[0191] In an embodiment in which the synchronized clock 100 includes a first selection shaft 1 and at least one second drive shaft 2, the watch 200 recognizes the movement of one of the transmission lines at the time setting end position, and the first upper half shaft 12 reactivates the stop lever of the stop mechanism 20, thereby releasing the resonator 10 and the watch 200 and instantly resuming operation of the resonator 10 and the watch 200.

[0192] In summary, by means of the first interface, the table clock 100 stops the inertial mass 15 of the wristwatch 200, in particular the balance, by means of the second hand stop lever mechanism 25 in particular.

[0193] Then, by means of a second mechanism, the clock 100 drives in steps, here in steps of 2 minutes, the minute indicator 5 of the watch 200, which in turn drives the hour indicator 4 of the watch 200. This driving is carried out until the indicators momentarily reach the exact time plus 2 minutes and show this time together.

[0194] The clock 100 then waits for the next passage of the next two minutes and releases the stop lever, thus allowing the watch 200 to run on time.

[0195] Thus, time setting of the watch is performed very accurately.

[0196] In summary, such a step-by-step time setting method for a synchronized wristwatch 200 includes various steps that are described below.

[0197] 1A: Determine the predetermined battery life value that the watch 200 must have at every moment after the first winding when removed from the clock 100.

[0198] 1B: Determine the value of a given time setting step.

[0199] 1C: Defines reference positions for displays 3, 4, 5 of wristwatch 200.

[0200] 1D: The correction mechanism comprises at least two separate transmission lines, one for power or motion transmission and the other for selecting the function to be performed or the display variable to be adjusted, each transmission line including an interface with a clock actuator in the clock 100 and at least one watch actuator in the wristwatch 200.

[0201] 1E: Place the watch 200 in the receptacle 150 in the transmission position. This allows the clock 100 to detect the presence of the watch 200, perform an initial winding of the watch 200 if the watch 200 is stopped when the watch 200 is placed on the clock 100, and trigger the start of the watch 200.

[0202] 1F: The table clock 100 winds the watch 200 to ensure a specified battery life for the watch 200 when the watch 200 is removed from the table clock 100.

[0203] 1G: The clock 100 also performs time setting for the wristwatch 200, either when the wristwatch 200 is placed on the receptacle 150, or alternatively, either at a predetermined time on the clock 100, or upon request by user action on the control means 300 contained in the clock 100 or in the wristwatch 200, or upon control of the timekeeping movement 900 contained in the clock 100.

[0204] 1H: The clock 100 also places the transmission line in a position corresponding to the time setting and activates the transmission line in successive steps by each value of this predetermined step. The transmission line can give the internal time setting mechanism of the wristwatch 200 all the movement necessary to arrive at the exact display of the current time.

[0205] 1I: The clock 100 keeps the watch 200 in operation as long as the watch 200 is in the receptacle 150 on the clock 100 in the transmitting position.

[0206] 1J: More specifically, the clock 100 and / or the watch 200 comprises a control means configured to enable the user to disable the time setting and winding functions in order to store a stopped watch on the clock.

[0207] 1K: More specifically, the time setting is controlled step by step by a periodic mechanism, which is connected to the rotation of the display of the clock 100 or to an alarm or alarm-type mechanism set by the user.

[0208] 1L: More specifically, the synchronization assembly 1000 comprises a first transmission line including a first actuator 501 of the clock and a second transmission line including a second actuator 502 of the clock, the first actuator 501 cooperating with a first actuator 901 of the watch and configured to control starting or stopping of the watch, and the second actuator 502 cooperating with a second actuator 902 of the watch and configured to incrementally provide a positioning movement.

[0209] 1M: More specifically, the tuning assembly 1000 comprises a first transmission line including a first actuator 501 of the clock and a second transmission line including a second actuator 502 of the clock, the first actuator 501 cooperating with a first actuator 901 of the watch and configured to control the coupling or uncoupling of the display of the watch 200 to the resonator without stopping the resonator, and the second actuator 502 cooperating with a second actuator 902 of the watch and configured to incrementally provide a positioning movement.

[0210] 1N: More specifically, a single actuator is created, which constitutes both the first actuator 901 of the watch and the second actuator 902 of the watch.

[0211] 1O: More specifically, the wristwatch 200 includes a stop mechanism 20, and the table clock 100 includes a stop control mechanism 120, which is configured to convert the step-by-step time setting control performed by a user or the table clock 100 into a sequence, the first step of the sequence being a control operation of the stop mechanism 20 of the wristwatch 200, and the stop control mechanism 120 of the table clock 100 is configured to control the movement of the transmission line, identify the time setting operation, and control the transmission of a pulse or torque to the stop mechanism 20 of the wristwatch 200.

[0212] 1P: More specifically, a time setting sequence is performed with respect to the operation of the transmission line to the internal time setting mechanism of the watch 200 in successive steps. According to the time setting sequence, the stop control mechanism 120 of the clock 100 controls the stop mechanism 20 of the watch 200 to stop the resonator 10 before the time setting, controls the reset mechanism 500 of the watch 200 to instantly return the indicators 3, 4, 5 of the watch 200 to their reference positions, and then the advance of the indicators 3, 4, 5 is controlled in successive steps to a restart indication position. This restart indication position corresponds to the exact instantaneous time readable on the clock 100 plus a value corresponding to a predetermined step or a predetermined step integer imposed by the mechanism. Also, when the clock 100 passes the time corresponding to the restart indication position, it changes the state of the stop control mechanism 120, controls the movement of the start / stop control transmission line, identifies the time setting end operation, controls the transmission of a pulse or torque to the stop mechanism 20 of the watch 200, releases the stop mechanism 20, and restarts the resonator 10.

[0213] 1Q: More specifically, to perform the reset, the watch 200 recognizes the movement of the transmission line between the clock 100 and the watch 200 at the time setting position, a first actuator 901 of the watch activates a stop mechanism 20 which stops the resonator 10 and the watch 200, the first actuator 901 of the watch constitutes a control mechanism for at least one hammer and positions at least one hour indicator 4 by cooperation of the hammer 402, 701 and the heart piece 401, 702, 703 for each timekeeping variable to be adjusted, the heart piece 401, 702, 703 rotating integrally with the indicator and supported by a cannon pinion.

[0214] 1R: More specifically, to execute the time setting sequence, the table clock 100 drives another transmission line which imposes a particular display on the watch 200, this other transmission line including a second actuator 902 of the watch operating in a reciprocating motion, by means of the second actuator 902 of the watch, the table clock 100 drives the minute indicator 5 of the watch 200 by a predetermined step integer number and, through the minute indicator 5 of the watch, drives the hour indicator 4 of the watch 200 until the display on the watch 200 corresponds to the resumed display position.

[0215] 1S: More specifically, to perform the time-setting sequence, the clock 100 comprises a mechanism for driving the hour and minute spirals by the movement 900, and a mechanism for sensing the instantaneous hours and minutes on demand, as in a minute repeater mechanism.

[0216] 1T: More specifically, to perform the time-setting sequence, the clock 100 comprises a drive mechanism which drives a single minute volute by means of the movement 900, and a mechanism which senses the instantaneous minute on demand, as on a minute repeater mechanism, the drive mechanism being driven at a speed of one revolution every 12 hours or one revolution every 24 hours, with a number of steps corresponding to the selected minute step multiplied by 12 or 24.

[0217] 1U: More precisely, select a predetermined number of steps of 2 minutes. The number of steps to be selected is variable between 0 and 359 steps, during which the hour and minute wheel or the minute wheel of the watch 200 is precisely positioned thanks to a 30-tooth or 15-tooth star wheel, which may be formed by the hour and minute wheel itself.

[0218] 1V: More specifically, the hour marker or minute wheel of the wristwatch 200 is precisely positioned by a combination of a star wheel integral with the hour marker or minute wheel and a jumper having one or more teeth, the number of teeth on the star wheel and the number of jumpers together defining the value of a given step.

[0219] 1W: More specifically, a clock 100 is implemented that includes a first selection shaft 1 and at least one second drive shaft 2, a wristwatch 200 configured to recognize the movement of one of the transmission lines at the time setting end position, and includes a first upper half shaft 12 that controls a stop mechanism 20 and releases the resonator 10.

[0220] A second variant of the time setting function, called periodic pulse winding, concerns the periodic winding of the watch 200 when the watch is in the receptacle 150 of the clock 100, with the winding value corresponding to the periodic duration plus the safety duration.

[0221] The general objective is the same as for the first step time setting variant.

[0222] In an advantageous embodiment, the same winding that is carried out each period, whether at the request of the user or at the request of the time base of the clock 100, is also triggered when the time is set on the watch, ensuring operation of the watch 200 after the time is set. In this case, this winding is carried out before the time setting operation.

[0223] This principle requires the presence of a safety mechanism in the watch 200, such as a sliding flange type barrel, to prevent the barrel spring from breaking in the event of overload. In more complex embodiments, the power reserve measuring mechanism may make it possible to prevent unnecessary or damaging winding of the barrel.

[0224] For example, and without limitation, cyclic winding is performed twice a day over a 12 hour period, and the winding value is greater than the cyclic winding value, e.g., a 13 hour winding value, to have a battery life of 13 hours.

[0225] The execution of the cyclical winding may be performed upon user request to the control means 300 and / or automatically, i.e. controlled by the clock 100, in particular by a mechanism connected to the rotation of the indicators 104, 105 of the clock 100. The control performed by the clock 100 may be cyclical or connected to an auxiliary mechanism, an alarm mechanism or an alarm-type mechanism set by the user. This control carried out by the clock 100 is only executed when the watch 200 is present in the receptacle 150 in the transmission position.

[0226] The execution of the cyclical winding can be triggered by the action of the user during the time setting request, or by the control of the clock 100 itself for the same purpose.

[0227] More specifically, cyclic winding is performed by one of the transmission lines between the clock and the watch, or by a third interface such as a crown, with the clock 100 driving the winding gear train of the watch 200 for a number of revolutions corresponding to a battery life of 13 hours in this example, which allows the operation of the watch 200 as soon as the user wears it, provided that said watch is equipped with an automatic winding mechanism, ensuring further winding even if the watch 200 has not been previously wound before the time setting request.

[0228] If the watch 200 is automatic, the watch 200 continues to wind while being worn.

[0229] If the watch 200 is still in the receptacle 150 on the clock 100, the watch 200 will continue to operate until the next periodic winding, which in this advantageous example is 12 hours later.

[0230] It should be noted that in extreme cases, stopping the winding may result in a loss of quality in the time measurement, but if the winding cycle is coupled with the time setting cycle, this loss is not harmful to the user.

[0231] It should also be noted that, therefore, after about 50 cycles, the maximum winding of the watch, for example 60 hours, is reached, and the watch will operate continuously with between 48 and 60 hours of winding, in which case the barrel flange will be forced to slide for 2 hours per day, which is considerably lower than the normal wear of an automatic watch and will not cause excessive wear to the mechanism.

[0232] This periodic winding is very simple and protects the watch's power storage mechanism whilst ensuring its availability to the user's benefit.

[0233] In summary, the method of winding such a synchronized watch 200 by means of a periodic pulse comprises various steps which are described below.

[0234] 2A: Determine the winding period. When the watch is in the receptacle 150, a periodic winding of the watch 200 is performed with a period equal to the winding period, the winding value corresponding to the duration of the winding period plus the safety duration.

[0235] 2B: More precisely, at each winding cycle, or during the time setting operation of the watch 200 by the clock 100, or upon request by user action on the control means 300, or under the control of the timekeeping movement 900 contained in the clock 100, a winding identical to the periodic winding is carried out to ensure the continued operation of the watch 200 after the time setting operation. The winding is carried out before the time setting operation.

[0236] 2C: More specifically, the clock 100 keeps the watch 200 in operation as long as the watch 200 is within the receptacle 150 on the clock 100 in the transmitting position.

[0237] 2D: The clock 100 and / or the watch 200 are provided with control means configured to enable the user to disable the time setting and winding functions and to store the stopped watch on the clock.

[0238] 2E: The watch 200 is equipped with a safety mechanism, a sliding flange barrel, or a power reserve measuring mechanism to prevent breaking of the barrel spring on overload and unnecessary or harmful winding of the barrel.

[0239] In particular, a winding cycle of 12 hours is selected.

[0240] 2F: More specifically, a winding value of 13 hours is selected, which includes a winding cycle of 12 hours and a safety duration of 1 hour, giving a total battery life of 13 hours.

[0241] 2G: More precisely, select cyclical automatic winding, which is controlled by the clock 100 at a moment defined by the user within an alarm mechanism or alarm-type mechanism, either periodically by a mechanism connected to the rotation of the display of the clock 100, or by the triggering of an auxiliary mechanism adjusted by the user.

[0242] 2H: More specifically, cyclic winding is triggered by a user action during a time setting request or by a time setting control by the clock 100.

[0243] 2I: The table clock 100 drives the winding gear train of the watch 200 by one of the transmission lines or by a third interface controlling the rotation of the crown contained in the watch 200 a sufficient number of rotations, which constitutes a winding value equal to the sum of the winding cycle and the safety duration, so as to enable immediate operation of the watch 200, even if the user wears the watch 200 immediately before the time setting request and even if the watch 200 has not been previously wound.

[0244] 2J: More specifically, when the winding cycle is reduced to a threshold value, the quality of the timekeeping of the watch 200 at this threshold is reduced, but because the winding cycle is coupled to the time setting cycle, the loss in timekeeping performance is not detrimental to the user.

[0245] More specifically, a connection mechanism is created between the clock 100 and the wristwatch 200 that includes at least two separate transmission lines.

[0246] More specifically, this tuning assembly 1000 is produced together with a watch 200 which includes at least one resonator 10, and a display gear train, and a final gear train, and either a stop mechanism 20 configured to stop the operation of the resonator 10, or a coupling mechanism allowing the display to be separated from the final gear train, or both such a stop mechanism 20 and such a coupling mechanism, and the watch 200 includes at least one hour indicator 4 and one minute indicator 5.

[0247] A third variant, called relative time setting, concerns the execution of a time setting controlled by the clock 100 on demand and automatically periodically, for example twice a day.

[0248] The general purpose is the same as in the first step time setting variant.

[0249] In each period, the clock 100 drives the indicators 4, 5 of the wristwatch 200 inversely with a value that ensures switching of the indication to the 12:00 position, for example a value of 13 hours, for a time setting of the hour indicator over 12 hours. Each of these indicators 4, 5 is blocked by a finger while passing the reference position of 12:00. More precisely, this reference position is adjustable and the blocking position of the finger is specific to at least one indicator 4, 5, more precisely to each indicator 4, 5.

[0250] The table clock 100 drives the wristwatch displays 4, 5 to the correct time with an accuracy of about ±20 seconds.

[0251] The execution of the on-demand and automatic periodic time setting can be performed upon user request to the control means 300 and / or automatic, i.e. controlled by the clock 100, in particular by a mechanism connected to the rotation of the indicators 104, 105 of the clock 100. The control performed by the clock 100 can be periodic or connected to an auxiliary mechanism, an alarm mechanism or an alarm-type mechanism set by the user. This control carried out by the clock 100 is only executed when the watch 200 is present in the receptacle 150 in the transmitting position.

[0252] By means of an interface such as a crown, the clock 100 drives the minute indicator 5 of the watch, which in turn drives the hour indicator 4 of the watch in a counterclockwise direction, which is abbreviated SIAM and corresponds to 13 hours, and ensures the passage of the time through a reference position, in particular 12:00. When passing from the 12:00 position or advantageously from an adjacent position called the ready position, for example the 12:15 position, the pawl is unlocked and blocks the minute indicator at the reference position, in particular 12h00. The driving of the time over a 13-hour course in the counterclockwise direction continues on the friction system. This principle is the opposite to that which allows the precise adjustment of the striking time of the alarm at the exact minute by the combination of two cams, as can be read in document EP 2 073 076 B1 in the name of MONTRES BREGUET, in which one of the two cams, the hour cam, includes an opening corresponding to approximately a quarter of an hour before the time at which the striking is scheduled to be performed, this opening being arranged to cooperate with a pin and whose activation continues only with the movement of the minute cam which triggers the alarm at the exact minute previously set.

[0253] Through a suitable interface, the clock 100 then drives the watch minute indicator 5 in the normal clockwise direction, i.e. abbreviated SAM, which in turn drives the watch hour indicator 4 until the indicator reaches the correct time. It should be noted that the time setting accuracy is highly dependent on the clearance and is estimated to be about ±15 to 20 seconds per minute, out of principle, in one revolution of the time setting gear train.

[0254] More particularly, the reference position and / or the ready position and the blocking position of at least one claw, and in particular each claw, are adjustable.

[0255] In summary, the method of relative time setting of such a synchronized wristwatch 200 includes various steps which are described below.

[0256] 3A: Defines the reference position for the displays 3, 4, 5 of the watch 200.

[0257] 3B: The time setting is carried out on demand, by user action on control means 300 contained in the clock 100 or in the watch 200, or is periodically and automatically controlled by the clock 100.

[0258] 3C: To also perform the relative time setting, the clock 100 drives the wristwatch indicators 4, 5 in the counterclockwise direction in a stroke long enough to ensure that the indicators 4, 5 pass the reference position.

[0259] 3D: If the watch 200 displays the 12 o'clock indication, then the journey is selected to a value greater than 12 hours, particularly but not exclusively for setting the time twice a day.

[0260] 3E: More specifically, the watch 200 is particularly, but not exclusively, provided with a tab for each of the displays 4, 5, the tab being configured to block at least one of the displays 4, 5 when the watch 200 switches to a position corresponding to the reference position.

[0261] 3F: More specifically, the control means 300 comprises adjustment means for adjusting the blocking position of a pawl specific to at least one indicator, or for adjusting the blocking position of a pawl specific to each indicator.

[0262] More specifically, the control means 300 comprises adjustment means for adjusting the reference position.

[0263] 3G: More specifically, a periodic automatic time setting is selected, which is controlled by the clock 100, periodically, by a mechanism connected to the rotation of the display of the clock 100, or by the triggering of an auxiliary mechanism set by the user, at a moment defined by the user within an alarm mechanism or an alarm-type mechanism.

[0264] 3H: More specifically, the periodic time setting is triggered by a user action during a time setting request or by the time setting control of the clock 100.

[0265] 3I: More precisely, through the interface, the clock 100 drives the minute indicator 5 of the watch and, through said minute indicator, drives the hour indicator 4 of the watch in a counterclockwise direction so as to block the minute indicator in the reference position. The driving of time by the clock 100 continues on the friction system.

[0266] 3J: More specifically, then, by means of a suitable interface, the table clock 100 in turn drives the watch minute indicator 5 in the normal clockwise direction, which in turn drives the watch hour indicator 4 until the indicator reaches the correct time.

[0267] 3K: More specifically, it defines a ready position adjacent to the reference position, when passing the ready position the pawls are unlocked, and the control means 300 comprises adjustment means for adjusting the ready position.

[0268] 3L: More specifically, the tuning assembly 1000 comprises a first transmission line and a second transmission line, the first transmission line including a first actuator 501 of the clock which cooperates with a first actuator 901 of the watch and is configured to control the coupling or decoupling of the display of the watch to the resonator 10 without stopping the resonator 10, and the second transmission line including a second actuator 502 of the clock which cooperates with a second actuator 902 of the watch and is configured to provide a positioning movement.

[0269] 3M: More specifically, the watch 200 comprises a stopping mechanism 20 which keeps the inertial mass 15 of the resonator 10 stopped during time setting.

[0270] 3N: More specifically, the watch 200 comprises a coupling mechanism that allows starting the displays 4, 5 during time setting without stopping the inertial mass 15 of the resonator 10.

[0271] In a fourth variant, called winding by relative time setting, winding occurs on demand and automatically, as well, twice a day, during a period of 13 hours of counterclockwise rotation of the relative time setting of the watch as described above. A 13-hour counterclockwise rotation of the indicators 4, 5 of the watch ensures winding of the watch for a duration of 13 hours.

[0272] This fourth alternative allows time setting and winding to be performed with a single rotary interface.

[0273] The time setting function is triggered by a user action on the clock (on demand) or by a mechanism connected to the (periodic) rotation of the clock's display.

[0274] By means of a crown type interface or the like, the clock 100 drives the watch minute indicator 5 and the watch hour indicator 4 in a counterclockwise direction by the equivalent of 13 hours for relative time setting. This rotation can advantageously be used to wind the 13-hour barrel.

[0275] Two solutions: - the interface drives a manual winding gear train in addition to rotating the indicator in a counterclockwise direction, or -The final gear train includes a pawl mover that allows winding of the barrel during reverse rotation of the indicator Either of the following is proposed.

[0276] The first option is easier to implement. It includes a pawl system to allow clockwise rotation of the indicator of the relative time setting. However, the pawl system is not in the final gear train.

[0277] The second option, interestingly, only requires a ratchet wheel in the final gear train. The time-setting friction body must allow the transmission of torque by winding. A typical cannon-pinion torque is about 1 N.mm, whereas a typical cannon-pinion torque for maximum winding is 3 N.mm. The coupling system can replace the conventional time-setting friction body.

[0278] The invention allows winding on demand for a duration of 13 hours between time settings, and guarantees winding for a duration of 13 hours between periodic time settings.

[0279] In summary, the method of winding such a synchronized watch 200 by relative time setting includes various steps which are described below.

[0280] 4A: Defines the reference position for the display of the watch 200.

[0281] 4B: Winding is performed by time setting or on demand, by user action on the control means 300 contained in the clock 100 or in the watch 200, or automatically, periodically, controlled by the clock 100. To perform a relative time setting that allows winding, the clock 100 drives the indicators 4, 5 of the watch in the reverse counterclockwise direction with a stroke long enough to ensure that the indicators 4, 5 pass the reference position.

[0282] 4C: More specifically, if the watch 200 displays the 12 o'clock indication, the itinerary is specifically, but non-limitingly, selected to be a value greater than 12 o'clock for setting the time twice a day.

[0283] 4D: More specifically, the watch 200 is provided with a tab for each of the displays 4, 5, the tab being configured to block this display 4, 5 when the watch 200 switches to a position corresponding to the reference position.

[0284] 4E: More specifically, the control means 300 comprises adjustment means for adjusting the blocking position of a pawl specific to at least one indicator, or for adjusting the blocking position of a pawl specific to each indicator.

[0285] 4F: More specifically, the control means 300 comprises an adjustment means for adjusting the reference position.

[0286] 4G: More specifically, periodic automatic time setting is selected, the periodic automatic time setting being controlled by the clock 100, periodically, by a mechanism connected to the rotation of the display of the clock 100, or by the triggering of an auxiliary mechanism set by the user, at a moment defined by the user within an alarm or alarm-type mechanism.

[0287] 4H: More specifically, periodic time setting is triggered by a user action during a time setting request or by time setting control by the clock 100.

[0288] 4I: More precisely, through the interface, the clock 100 drives the minute indicator 5 of the watch, which in turn drives the hour indicator 4 of the watch in a counterclockwise direction and blocks the minute indicator in the reference position. The driving of the time by the clock 100 continues on a friction system, ensuring a defined winding. In particular, a ready position close to the reference position is defined, the pawls being unlocked to block the minute indicator when passing the ready position.

[0289] 4J: More specifically, during counterclockwise rotation of the indicator, the interface winds the barrel, and the pawl is outside the final gear train, which in addition to the indicator drives a manual winding gear train contained in the watch 200, or the final gear train includes a pawl mover that allows the indicator gear train to wind the barrel, and a part of the final gear train is located between the pawl mover and the barrel during counterclockwise rotation of the indicator.

[0290] In a fifth variant, called the permanent time setting variant, the time setting occurs only on demand, like winding.

[0291] In this variant, the watch 200 necessarily comprises a stop mechanism 20 designed in particular to stop the operation of the resonator 10 by means of the support of an arm or leaf spring or another actuator on the inertial mass 15 or on appropriate elements of the resonator. More particularly, this stop mechanism 20 is a seconds hand stop mechanism 25 including a stop lever.

[0292] The stop lever is activated.

[0293] The clock drives the indicator backwards for 13 hours. The indicator is blocked by a lug when passing from a reference position, specifically 12h00.

[0294] These 13-hour reverse rotations also ensure the winding of the watch, as mentioned above.

[0295] In this case the clock drives a display to the time with an accuracy of about ±20 seconds.

[0296] The clock then continues to drive the display until the watch is unlocked on the clock.

[0297] Unlocking the watch on the clock releases the stop lever.

[0298] This fifth variant avoids the constant operation of the watch (except for the display), ie daily winding and time setting; these functions being performed only once at the request of the user of the watch.

[0299] The set time function is triggered only by a user action on the (on demand) clock.

[0300] By means of the second interface (push button type) the clock stops the watch and decouples the display (coupling of the cannon pinion).

[0301] By means of the first interface (crown type), the clock drives the minute indicator, which drives the hour indicator in a counterclockwise direction by the equivalent of 13 hours, ensuring that the hour indicator is switched to a reference position, in particular 12h00, and, as in the fourth variant, ensuring a minimum winding above the 12-hour power reserve, in particular at a power reserve value of 13 hours. In the reverse operation, shortly before reaching the reference position, in particular 12h00, such as when passing from the 12h15 position, the pawl is unlocked and blocks the minute indicator at the reference position, in particular 12h00. The counterclockwise driving of the clock for 13 hours continues on the friction system.

[0302] Then, by means of the first interface, the clock drives the minute indicator and, through said minute indicator, the hour indicator until the indicator reaches the exact time. It should be noted that the time setting accuracy is highly dependent on the gap and is estimated to be ±20 seconds per minute, off principle, in one revolution of the time setting gear train.

[0303] Then, via the first interface, the clock drives the display at the actual speed unless the watch is released from the clock for wearing.

[0304] When the user releases the watch to wear it, the clock releases the stop lever and the indicator coupling clutch via the second interface and the watch becomes independent again.

[0305] The invention has the advantage of eliminating operational wear on the watch when it is placed on a desk clock.

[0306] The present invention guarantees a minimum of 13 hours of battery life regardless of when the watch is taken off.

[0307] In summary, the method of winding such a synchronized watch 200 with permanent time setting includes various steps, which are described below.

[0308] 5A: Defines the reference position for the display of the watch 200.

[0309] 5B: The time setting is carried out only on demand, by the action of the user on the control means 300 contained in the clock 100 or in the watch 200, or automatically, periodically, controlled by the clock 100. For the time setting, the clock 100 drives the indicators 4, 5 of the watch in the counterclockwise direction in reverse, with a stroke long enough to ensure that the indicators 4, 5 pass the reference position, or the clock 100 controls, by means of the heart piece, the means of the watch 200 arranged to ensure the displacement of the indicators to the reference position.

[0310] 5C: Through the interface, the clock 100 drives the minute indicator 5 of the watch, through which the hour indicator 4 of the watch is driven in a counterclockwise direction, blocking the minute indicator in a reference position, and the driving of time by the clock 100 continues on the friction system. Then, through a suitable interface, the clock 100 in turn drives the minute indicator 5 of the watch in a normal clockwise direction, through which the minute indicator drives the hour indicator 4 of the watch in a continuous rotation until the indicator reaches the exact time. More specifically, a ready position close to the reference position is defined, and when passing the ready position, the pawl is unlocked and blocks the minute indicator.

[0311] 5D: User action on the control means 300 activates the stop mechanism 20, stopping the operation of the resonator 10 before driving the displays 4, 5 to the reference position. After the watch displays 4, 5 have reached the instantaneous time, the clock 100 drives the displays 4, 5 as long as the watch 200 is in the receptacle 150 in the transmission position, and when the watch 200 is removed from the receptacle 150, it separates the watch 200 from the clock 100, resulting in the release of the stop mechanism 20 and allowing the operation of the resonator 10.

[0312] 5E: The displays 4, 5 are therefore driven in the counterclockwise direction to the reference position.

[0313] 5F: When the user acts on the control means 300, the clock 100 activates the stop mechanism 20 through the all-or-nothing interface, stopping the operation of the resonator 10.

[0314] 5G: More specifically, to drive the displays 4, 5 in reverse, the table clock 100 drives the displays 4, 5 through the motion transmission interface, and after the displays 4, 5 reach the instantaneous time in the normal clockwise direction, the table clock 100 drives the displays 4, 5 at the actual speed as long as the watch 200 is in the receptacle 150 at the transmission position, and when the watch 200 is removed from the receptacle 150, it separates the watch 200 from the table clock 100, resulting in decoupling between the motion transmission interface and the displays 4, 5.

[0315] 5H: More specifically, when the wristwatch 200 displays the 12 o'clock display, the itinerary is selected, in particular, but not limited to, a value greater than 12 hours for setting the time twice a day.

[0316] 5I: More specifically, the watch 200 is provided with a tab for each of the displays 4, 5, the tab being configured to block this display 4, 5 when the watch 200 switches to a position corresponding to the reference position.

[0317] 5J: More specifically, the control means 300 comprises adjustment means for adjusting the blocking position of a pawl specific to at least one indicator, or for adjusting the blocking position of a pawl specific to each indicator.

[0318] 5K: More specifically, the control means 300 comprises adjustment means for adjusting the reference position.

[0319] 5L: More specifically, a permanent automatic time setting trigger is selected, which is controlled by the clock 100, periodically by a mechanism connected to the rotation of the display of the clock 100, or by the triggering of an auxiliary mechanism set by the user, at a moment defined by the user within an alarm-type mechanism.

[0320] 5M: More specifically, such a permanent time setting is triggered by a user action during a time setting request or by a time setting control by the clock 100.

[0321] 5N: More specifically, the control means 300 comprises adjustment means for adjusting the ready position.

[0322] 5O: More precisely, winding is carried out only on demand, during a permanent time setting which allows winding, during user action on the control means 300.

[0323] The sixth variant, called data acquisition for setting the time on demand, has the purpose of making it possible to read the time displayed by the clock and to transmit the information to the wristwatch within the framework of the operating modes of the synchronized clock described in the first, third and fifth variants above. Figures 8 to 12 show data acquisition on a clock for setting the time on demand.

[0324] This sixth variant uses a mechanism that reads the difference between the current time and a reference time, chosen arbitrarily and non-limitingly 12h00 in all the variants above, which mechanism transmits information of the value of this difference to the watch and also makes it possible to index the display after returning it to the reference position, in particular 12h00. Advantageously, this transmission can give either the exact offset or the sum of the offset and the offset, the offset being that necessary for setting the time with a seconds signal.

[0325] This sixth variant will be described here in the same way as the first variant, called stepwise time setting, and it will be appreciated that the sixth variant is also valid for the third and fifth variants.

[0326] It is recalled that according to a first variant, the time setting function is triggered by a user action on the clock (on demand, on the control means 300) or by a mechanism connected to the (periodic) rotation of the clock's indicators. By means of a first interface, the clock stops the resonator 10, in particular the watch balance 15 (stopping the balance lever mechanism), activates the hammer mechanism and returns the watch hour indicator from 4 o'clock to 12 o'clock and, by means of said hour indicator, the watch minute indicator 5 to 00 minutes. Then, via a second interface (push button), the clock drives the watch minute indicator 5 in two minute steps and, by means of said minute indicator, drives the watch hour indicator 4. This driving is performed until these indicators 4 and 5 reach and show, in a non-limiting manner, the exact time plus two minute steps. This function can ensure the rewinding of the hammer. During this stage, the minute wheel is precisely positioned thanks to a star wheel, in particular a star wheel with 30 or 15 teeth. The clock then waits until the next two minutes for the next passage, releasing the stop lever and allowing the watch to run on time.

[0327] A first embodiment of this sixth variant includes a single cam 601 in the clock 100, implementing step-by-step time setting.

[0328] The clock 100 includes a spiral cam 601 that rotates once every 12 hours and includes 360 bearings 6010 on its circumference, one bearing for every two minutes. This cam is integral with the display of the clock (which rotates once every 12 hours).

[0329] The clock 100 comprises a feeler spindle 602, in particular a rocker lever, which comprises a feeler spindle finger 604 with a rack 603 at a first end and a beak 605 at a second, opposite end. Said feeler spindle finger is maintained by default in a rest position corresponding to a reference time plus an offset, which corresponds to possible gear train gaps and possible further jumps, and allows the time setting function with the seconds hand stop mechanism according to the first variant. This maintenance of the feeler spindle 602 is advantageously performed with an adjustment eccentric (not shown), allowing the watchmaker to easily compensate for these gaps.

[0330] The adjustment can advantageously also be carried out by means of a fine adjustment rack according to the teaching of application EP20158326.7 in the name of MONTRES BREGUET.

[0331] When the user requests a time setting, or when the clock itself requests this time setting, the proposed time setting cycle comprises a step of referencing the watch to a reference position, for example 12h00.

[0332] The feeler spindle 602, which supports the feeler spindle fingers 604, is acted upon by return means, in particular elastic return means such as a spring.

[0333] Once this reference setting has been performed, the clock 100 releases the feeler spindle 602, which is rotated by this return means (not shown) until it abuts on one of the 360 ​​bearings 6010 of the cam 601. This rotation corresponds exactly to the number of two-minute steps that separate the reference time from the time displayed on the clock.

[0334] This rotation is transmitted to the watch and to the watch indicator or minute indicator by an interface, particularly but not exclusively of the reciprocating type. Alternatively, the interface may be rotatable rather than reciprocating.

[0335] At the end of the function, the clock 100 rewinds the feeler spindle 602 by a mechanism similar to known ground strike mechanisms and returns it to its rest position, ready for a new function.

[0336] A second embodiment of this sixth variant includes two cams 610 and 620 in the clock 100 to implement step-by-step time setting.

[0337] The 360 ​​position cam used in the first embodiment is in fact still a difficult element to manufacture and is necessarily bulky, even in the context of a table clock.

[0338] The operation of this second embodiment is similar to that of the first single cam mode, but reduces the difficulty of manufacturing the cam. Thus, the clock 100 includes two cams: a first hour cam 610, which rotates once every 12 hours, includes 12 bearings 6100 on its circumference, one bearing for every hour, and a second minute cam 620, which rotates once every hour, includes 30 bearings 6200, one bearing for every two minutes. These cams are integral with the clock indicators, i.e., the hour indicator 104 (which rotates once every 12 hours) and the minute indicator 105 (which rotates once every hour).

[0339] The clock 100 also comprises two feeler spindles, a first feeler spindle 630 arranged to cooperate with a first hour cam 610 and a second feeler spindle 640 arranged to cooperate with a second minute cam 620. These two feeler spindles are by definition kept in a rest position which, in the case of the first hour feeler spindle 630, corresponds to a reference time plus an offset corresponding to a possible gear train gap and, in the case of the second minute feeler spindle 640, to a possible further jump, allowing the time setting function with the seconds hand stop mechanism 25 according to the first variant.

[0340] As soon as the watch 200 is set to the reference time, the clock 100 releases the feeler spindles 630 and 640 until they rest on the respective cams 610, 620. This rotation is transmitted to the interface and to the watch 200, in particular through a differential gear train 680. One of the reasons why the two cams 610, 620 have a ratio of 1 / 12 relative to each other is to accumulate the values ​​of the two cams 610, 620. The output of this differential mechanism 680 is arranged in particular, but not exclusively, to drive the second actuator 502, through a second control cam 684.

[0341] More specifically, this second actuator 502 includes a crank-connecting rod configured to push and pull a second control rod 512 contained within the second actuator 502, imparting to the second control rod 512 a reciprocating motion for setting the time of such watch 200. Alternatively, the second control rod 512 is returned to the second cam 684 by a second elastic return means 513.

[0342] In one variant, the clock 100 includes at least one electromechanical or electronic movement configured to control the movement of an output movable body, which is configured to drive such a second actuator 502, in particular, but not limited to, by means of a second control cam 684.

[0343] This rotation is transmitted by this interface to the watch 200 and to the watch minute indicator 5 .

[0344] At the end of the function, the clock 100 rewinds the two feeler spindles 630 and 640 to their rest positions by a mechanism similar to known ground strike mechanisms, and is ready for a new function.

[0345] In summary, the data acquisition method for setting the time of the wristwatch 200 on the clock 100 when required comprises various steps which are described below.

[0346] 6A: Defines the reference position for the display of the watch 200.

[0347] 6B: The clock 100 performs the time setting of the watch 200 when it is placed on the receptacle 150, or when switching on the clock 100 at a given moment, or on demand, by the action of the user on the control means 300 contained in the clock 100 or the watch 200, or under the control of the timekeeping movement 900 contained in the clock 100. The time displayed by the clock 100 is read by implementing a reading mechanism in the clock 100 and transmitting the time information to the watch 200. The reading mechanism is configured to read the deviation between the reference time and the current time compared to it, to transmit information of the value of this deviation to the watch 200, and to index the watch 200 after putting the displays 4, 5 in the reference position.

[0348] 6C: More precisely, the reading mechanism is configured to transmit information of the value or exact offset, or a corrected offset which is the sum of the offset and the offset, this offset being required for the time setting with a seconds signal.

[0349] 6D: More precisely, a value of a predetermined time setting step is determined. The clock 100 places a transmission line at a position corresponding to the time setting and operates each of the predetermined step values ​​in successive steps. The transmission line can give the time setting mechanism inside the watch 200 all the movements necessary to accurately achieve the display of the current time. And with respect to the operation of the transmission line by successive steps to the time setting mechanism inside the watch 200, a time setting sequence is performed, according to which the stop control mechanism 120 of the clock 100 controls the stop mechanism 20 of the watch 200 to stop the resonator 10 before the time setting or to decouple the final gear train from the display gear train, and controls the reset mechanism 500 included in the watch 200 to return the indicators 3, 4, 5 of the watch 200 to their reference positions instantly.

[0350] 6E: The advance of the indicators 3, 4, 5 is then controlled in successive steps up to a restart indicator position readable on the clock 100. This restart indicator position corresponds to the exact instantaneous time plus a corresponding value in a predefined step or a predefined step integer imposed by the mechanism.

[0351] 6F: Next, by switching the clock 100 to the time corresponding to the restart display position, the state of the stop control mechanism 120 is changed, the movement of the start / stop control transmission line is controlled, the time setting end operation is identified, the transmission of a pulse or torque to the stop mechanism 20 of the wristwatch 200 is controlled, the stop mechanism 20 is released, and the resonator 10 is restarted or the final gear train is coupled with the display gear train.

[0352] 6G: More precisely, to perform the reset, the watch 200 recognizes the movement of the transmission line between the clock 100 in the time setting position and the watch 200. The watch 200 is used, and a first actuator 901 of the watch activates the stop mechanism 20, which stops the resonator 10 and the watch 200, and this first actuator 901 of the watch constitutes a mechanism controlling at least one hammer, and in particular, for each timepiece variable to be adjusted, by the cooperation of the hammer 402, 701 and the heart piece 401, 702, 703, at least one hour indicator 4 and one minute indicator 5 are located in a reference position, which rotates together with one of the indicators and is more particularly, but not exclusively, supported by a cannon pinion.

[0353] 6H: More specifically, to execute the time setting sequence, the table clock 100 drives another transmission line which imposes a specific display on the wristwatch 200, this other transmission line including a second wristwatch actuator 902 provided in the wristwatch 200, which operates in a reciprocating motion, and by means of the second wristwatch actuator 902, the table clock 100 drives the minute indicator 5 of the wristwatch 200 by an integer number of predetermined steps, and through the minute indicator 5 of the wristwatch drives the hour indicator 4 of the wristwatch 200 until the display on the wristwatch 200 corresponds to the resumed display position.

[0354] 6I: More specifically, to carry out the time setting sequence, the clock 100 comprises a mechanism for driving the hour and minute spirals by the movement 900, and a mechanism for sensing the instantaneous hours and minutes on demand.

[0355] 6J: More specifically, to execute the time setting sequence, the clock 100 comprises a mechanism for driving a single minute spiral cam and a mechanism for sensing the instantaneous minute, the single minute spiral cam being driven by the movement 900 at a speed of one revolution per 12 hours or one revolution per 24 hours, with a number of steps corresponding to the selected minute step multiplied by 12 or 24.

[0356] 6K: More precisely, a predetermined step of 2 minutes is selected, the number of steps to be carried out is variable between 0 and 359 steps, and during the predetermined step the hour hand or minute wheel of the wristwatch 200 is precisely positioned thanks to a 30-tooth or 15-tooth star wheel which can be formed by the hour hand itself.

[0357] 6L: More specifically, the hour marker or minute wheel of the wristwatch 200 is accurately positioned by a combination of a star wheel integral with the hour marker or minute wheel and a jumper having one or more teeth, the number of teeth on the star wheel and the number of teeth on the jumper together defining the value of a given step.

[0358] 6M: More precisely, the table clock 100 drives the minute indicator 5 of the watch, thereby also ensuring at least a partial rewinding of at least one hammer 402, 701, or each hammer 402, 701.

[0359] 6N: More precisely, to perform instantaneous hour and minute sensing, a clock 100 is used, which comprises a single spiral cam 601 which rotates once every 12 hours, which comprises 360 bearings 6010 on its circumference, i.e. one bearing for every 2 minutes, which is integral with the display of the clock 100 which performs one rotation every 12 hours, which comprises a feeler spindle 602 which is acted upon by elastic return means, which comprises a rack 603 at a first end and a feeler spindle finger 604 with a beak 605 at a second opposite end, which is maintained in a rest position by definition, which corresponds to a reference time plus a positive or zero offset, which offset corresponds to possible gear train gaps and possible further jumps, and which allows the implementation of a time setting function with a seconds hand stop mechanism. When the user requests to set the time, or when the clock 100 requests to set the time, the time-setting cycle begins with a step of referencing the reference position of the wristwatch 100, and as soon as this reference setting has been performed, the clock 100 releases the feeler spindle 602, which rotates until it abuts against one of the bearings 6010 of the cam 601. This rotation corresponds entirely to the number of steps that separate the reference time from the time displayed on the clock 100.

[0360] 6O: More specifically, at the end of a function, the clock 100 rewinds the feeler spindle 602 and returns it to its rest position, ready for a new function.

[0361] 6P: More specifically, to perform instantaneous hour and minute sensing, a clock 100 is used. The clock 100 includes a first hour spiral cam 610 and a second minute spiral cam 620, the first hour spiral cam 610 rotates once every 12 hours and includes 12 bearings 6100 on its circumference, one bearing for each hour, the second minute spiral cam 620 rotates once every hour and includes 30 bearings 6200, one bearing for each 2 minutes, the cams 610 and 620 are fixed to a clock hour indicator 104 that rotates once every 12 hours and a clock minute indicator 105 that rotates once every hour, respectively. The table clock 100 comprises a first feeler spindle 630 configured to cooperate with a first hour cam 610 and a second feeler spindle 640 configured to cooperate with a second minute cam 620, the first feeler spindle 630 and the second feeler spindle 640 being maintained in a stationary position by definition, which in the case of the first hour feeler spindle 630 corresponds to a reference time plus a plus or zero offset, which offset corresponds to a possible gear train gap and in the case of the second minute feeler spindle 640 corresponds to a possible further jump, enabling a time setting function by the second hand stop mechanism 25. When the user requests to set the time or when the clock 100 requests to set the time, the time setting cycle begins with a step of referencing the reference position of the watch 200, and as soon as this reference is made, the clock 100 releases the first feeler spindle 630 and the second feeler spindle 640 and rotates them until they rest on the respective cams 610, 620, which rotation is transmitted via the differential gear train 680 to the interface and to the minute indicator 5 of the watch 200. One of the reasons why the two cams 610, 620 have a ratio of 1 / 12 to each other is to accumulate the values ​​of the two cams 610, 620.

[0362] 6Q: More specifically, at the end of a function, the clock 100 rewinds the first feeler spindle 630 and the second feeler spindle 640 and returns them to their rest position, ready for a new function.

[0363] The seventh variant, called reference time setting of the display and illustrated by figures 13 to 18, proposes a solution for the function of returning the display of the watch 200 to a reference position, in particular 12h00. This function is necessary for the implementation of the first, third and fifth variants described above.

[0364] A ninth variant concerns enabling the execution of a cycle for a first displacement of the interface between the watch 200 and the clock 100, the corrector performing, for example, the following functions of the watch 200 from time to time: - decoupling the display gear train from the final gear train; - returning the display to a reference position, e.g. 12h00, - Maintain this position as accurately as possible, - Enabling the time setting function (see below), - use the time setting function to rewind the hammer, or - Disable this hammer. Upon a second displacement of the interface between the wristwatch 200 and the clock 100, - combining the indicator gear train on the final gear train, - Rewind the hammer if necessary.

[0365] To this end, the watch 200 includes: - a hammer 701 similar to a chronograph hammer. The hammer 701 has a winding position and an active position, in which the hammer 701 is held by a pawl and tensioned by a spring, and in which the hammer 701 rests on the outer periphery of a first heart-shaped hour cam 702 and forces the first heart-shaped hour cam 702 to rotate to its minimum radius. This first heart-shaped hour cam 702 is similar to that used in chronograph mechanisms. This first hour cam 702 is supported by an hour wheel 708. a second truncated heart-shaped minute cam 703 supported by a minute indicator 705, a jumper 704 in bearing cooperation with a 30-tooth star wheel integral with a minute indicator (not shown); - a 30-tooth star wheel supported by a minute indicator (not shown), a star wheel, in particular a cannula 705, which, as shown in FIG. 17, can act as a 15-tooth star wheel cooperating with a double jumper 7040; a coupling mechanism 706 between the indicator gear train 705-707-708 and the final gear train 710, which in the particular case shown comprises a friction spring 709; - A mechanism (not shown) that controls the three stages of functioning.

[0366] The cycle is carried out in three stages: - triggering and decoupling the alignment to the reference position, in particular 12h00, by the interface in the position of FIG. 15, - maintaining the position of the time-setting indicator and isolating or rewinding the hammer; - coupling the hammer via the interface and rewinding it if necessary.

[0367] In the first stage, the interface actuates the coupling clutch 706 to its uncoupling position, as seen in FIG.

[0368] The interface then releases the hammer 701, which causes the first heart-shaped cam 702 to bring the hour indicator to a reference position, in particular 12h00, and the timer to bring the minute indicator to a reference position, in particular 12h00.

[0369] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, a typical timer setting allows for an error of around 3 minutes on the position of the minute indicator, i.e. ±1.5 minutes, relative to the error in the hour indicator, depending on the reset direction transmitted by the hammer to the heart piece.

[0370] Advantageously, an additional minute heart cam 703 is actuated at the end of the hammer 701 function to ensure precise positioning at the minute.

[0371] During the second stage, the jumper 704 and the 30-tooth star wheel maintain the position of the indicator in the reference position, in particular at 12h00, and in 2 minute correction steps in all subsequent positions. In this example, the 15-tooth cannon pinion advantageously replaces the 30-tooth star wheel, by cooperating with the double jumper shown in FIG.

[0372] The mechanism allows the hammer to be rewinded without losing the indication and the time can be set in two minute steps.

[0373] In a third step, the interface may release the coupling clutch and reconnect the final gear train with the display gear train.

[0374] Thus, the two Heart Cam options improve the precision of the operation.

[0375] FIG. 18 shows the coupling mechanism of a Breguet chronograph 1050, which includes a clamp 721, whose function is to ensure coupling and decoupling under the control of a column wheel 740, which controls the angular deviation of the clamp arms 721, 722 that opens and closes the clamp, and therefore the decoupling or coupling.

[0376] This seventh embodiment allows for the engagement of a time setting mechanism, and makes it possible to decouple the display gear train from the final gear train and then recouple them to each other.

[0377] This arrangement is simplified in the case where advantageous use is made of the teeth of the cannon pinion for the function of the star wheel.

[0378] In summary, the method for setting the reference time of the display comprises various steps which are described below.

[0379] 7A: The reference position of the display is defined.

[0380] 7B: Use the watch 200. The watch 200 includes a coupling mechanism 706 between the display gear trains 705, 707, 708 and the final gear train 710, and a hammer 701, which is movable between a winding position and an effective position, in which the hammer 701 is held by a pawl and tensioned by a spring, and in which the hammer 701 is placed on the outer periphery of a first hour heart cam 702 supported by an hour wheel 708 included in the watch 200, and is configured to forcibly rotate the first hour heart cam 702 to a minimum radius.

[0381] A cycle is also carried out which includes three steps.

[0382] 7C: First phase. During the first phase, due to a first displacement of the interface between the clock 100 and the wristwatch 200, the coupling mechanism 706 is disengaged by the interface, thereby actuating the interface to the disengaged position, and after disengaging the coupling clutch 706, the interface releases the hammer 701, thereby returning the hour indicator 4 to the reference position by the first hour heart cam 702 and the minute indicator 5 to the reference position by the timer.

[0383] - 7D: Second stage time. Maintain the indicators 4, 5 in position for time setting and isolate or rewind the hammer 701.

[0384] -7E: and third phase. A second displacement of the interface between the clock 100 and the watch 200 reconnects the final gear train with the display gear train. The coupling mechanism 706 is coupled by the interface which actuates the coupling mechanism 706 towards the coupled position. During the third phase, the interface makes it possible to rewind the hammer 701.

[0385] 7F: More specifically, at the end of the stroke of the hammer 701, the hammer 701 cooperates with a second minute heart cam 703 which is in the shape of a truncated heart and which is integral with the minute indicator 5, ensuring a position at the exact minute.

[0386] 7G: More precisely, the value of the predetermined time setting step is determined. During the second stage, the position of the indicator is maintained in a reference position by cooperation between a jumper 704 and a star wheel contained in the watch 200, which then allows rewinding of the hammer 701 at each subsequent position, step by step, without losing the indication.

[0387] 7H: More specifically, it selects either a 30-tooth star or a 15-tooth minute barrel pinion as the star wheel supported by the minute indicator 5. The 30-tooth star cooperates with a simple 1-tooth jumper 704, while the 15-tooth minute barrel pinion cooperates simultaneously with a single tooth of a double jumper 7040 containing 2 teeth.

[0388] 7I: More specifically, the hour marker or minute wheel of wristwatch 200 is accurately positioned by a combination of a star wheel integral with the hour marker or minute wheel and a jumper having one or more teeth, the number of teeth on the star wheel and the number of teeth on the jumper together defining the value of a given step.

[0389] 7J: More specifically, the coupling mechanism 706 includes a friction spring 709.

[0390] 7K: More specifically, a chronograph coupling mechanism including a clamp 721 is used as coupling mechanism 706. The function of coupling mechanism 706 is to ensure coupling and decoupling under the control of a column wheel 740, which controls the angular deviation of the arms of clamps 721, 722 that open and close the clamps, which respectively correspond to coupling and decoupling.

[0391] 7L: More specifically, a three-stage control mechanism is used. More specifically, this control mechanism includes at least one column wheel 740.

[0392] As an alternative to this seventh variant, the eighth variant, called reference time setting and illustrated by figures 19 to 21, proposes another solution for the function of returning the indicator of the watch 200 to a reference position, in particular 12h00, which is necessary for the implementation of the first, third and fifth variants described above.

[0393] Here again, the eighth variant concerns making possible a cycle for a first displacement of the interface between the watch 200 and the clock 100, the corrector performing, for example, the following functions in the watch 200 from time to time: - decoupling the display gear train from the final gear train; - Returning the indicator to a reference position, e.g. 12h00, - Maintain this position as accurately as possible, - Enabling time setting functionality (more on this later). Also, upon a second displacement of the interface between the wristwatch and the clock, coupling the display gear train onto the final gear train.

[0394] A watch 200 is used, which includes: a rack 823 which engages with an hour wheel 808, which in turn is integral with the hour indicator 4 of the watch and which supports an hour cam 802 including a ratchet tooth notch; - a pawl 801 held in contact with a cam 802 by a pawl spring 8010; The rack 823 is configured to rattle in a clockwise direction about the hour wheel 808 and is driven by a return spring 825 .

[0395] The watch 200 also includes a rack pinion 824 or hour pinion, which is configured to drive and wind the rack 823, which advances with a clicking sound on each tooth during normal operation of the watch 200 when the watch 200 is not operating in conjunction with the clock 100.

[0396] The watch 200 further includes a coupling mechanism 806 between the display gear trains 805 , 807 , 808 and the final gear train 810 .

[0397] The reference time of the wristwatch 200 is set at any time according to a cycle including three steps: - First phase: during the first phase, a first displacement of the interface between the clock 100 and the watch 200 triggers a placement in the reference position and a reference time setting of the indicators 4, 5 of the watch 200 is performed. The coupling mechanism 806 is decoupled by the interface which activates the coupling mechanism 806 in the decoupling position, allowing the rack 823 to drive the hour and minute gear trains of the watch 200 in the counterclockwise direction as many times as necessary. This drive is performed until the pawl 801 comes into contact with the opening of the ratchet teeth of the hour cam, this block being the reference position corresponding to the reference indication position. - a second phase: for setting the time the positions of the indicators 4, 5 are maintained and the time-setting mechanism controlled by the clock 100 sets the time of the indicators 4, 5 of the watch 200 to the exact time in the clockwise direction by rewinding the rack 801; - A third phase, where a second displacement of the interface between the clock 100 and the watch 200 reconnects the final gear train with the display gear train. The coupling mechanism 806 is coupled via the interface which actuates the coupling mechanism 806 towards a coupled position. During the third phase, the interface makes it possible to rewind the rack 801 or to complete the rewinding of the rack 801 started during the second phase.

[0398] More specifically, a watch 200 is used. The watch 200 comprises a watch hour indicator 4 supporting an hour cam 802 including an opening 8020, and a second minute cam 803, which is supported by a watch minute indicator mobile body 805 and includes an opening 8030 or a notch 831 in the teeth of the ratchet wheel. The coupling mechanism 806 is also decoupled in the decoupling position, which allows the rack 823 to drive the gear train of the hour and minute indicators of the watch 200 in the counterclockwise direction as many times as necessary. This drive is performed until the pawl 801 contacts the opening 8020 of the first hour cam 802 and is blocked in the opening 8030 in the teeth of the ratchet wheel of the second minute cam 803. This contact corresponds to the number of minutes preceding the reference time at which the pawl 801 may be placed for rotation on the second minute cam 803 at the moment of contact, the number of minutes preceding the reference time corresponding to the last number of minutes before the reference time is reached. The block corresponds to the reference display position.

[0399] The watch 200 further includes a jumper 804 configured to cooperate with a star wheel, in particular a 30-tooth star wheel that is integral with the minute display movable body 805, as in the seventh embodiment, and a mechanism for controlling three stages of function.

[0400] The cycle is carried out in three stages: - triggering the alignment to a reference position, in particular 12h00, and decoupling by the interface, - maintaining the position of the indicator for time setting; - coupling the claw 801 via the interface and rewinding if necessary.

[0401] During normal operation of an unsynchronised watch, the pinion 824 drives and winds the rack 823 which ticks along with each tooth as shown in Figures 19 and 20.

[0402] In the first stage, the interface actuates the coupling clutch 806 to its uncoupling position, as shown in FIG.

[0403] The coupling clutch disengages the hour and minute gear trains which are driven in a counterclockwise direction by rack 823 .

[0404] The display gear train driven in a counterclockwise direction by rack 823 can potentially rotate the hour wheel (hour indicator) two or more times and the hour pinion (minute indicator) connected by the timer thirteen or more times.

[0405] During the second stage, the time-setting mechanism can perform its function in a clockwise direction up to the exact time by rewinding the rack 801. If the rewinding is not completed by the time setting, it is compensated by the normal rotation of the watch indicator in a clockwise direction.

[0406] In a third step, the interface may release the coupling clutch and reconnect the final gear train with the display gear train.

[0407] In summary, the reference time setting method includes various steps which are described below.

[0408] 8A: The reference position of the display is defined.

[0409] 8B: A watch 200 is used, the watch 200 including: - a rack 823 which meshes with the hour wheel 808. The hour wheel 808 supports an hour cam 802, which includes a ratchet tooth notch, which is fixed to the hour indicator 4 of the watch. a pawl 801 maintained resting on a time cam 802 by a pawl spring 8010; The rack 823 is configured to rattle in a clockwise direction about the hour wheel 808 and is driven by a return spring 825 .

[0410] The watch 200 also includes a rack pinion 824 or hour pinion, which is configured to drive and wind the rack 823, which advances with a clicking sound on each tooth during normal operation of the watch 200 when the watch 200 is not operating in conjunction with the clock 100.

[0411] The watch 200 also includes a coupling mechanism 806 between the display gear trains 805 , 807 , 808 and the final gear train 810 .

[0412] Furthermore, the reference time of the wristwatch 200 is set at any time according to a cycle including the following three steps.

[0413] 8C: First phase. During the first phase, the positioning in the reference position is triggered by a first positioning of the interface between the clock 100 and the watch 200. The reference time setting of the indicators 4, 5 of the watch 200 is carried out and the coupling mechanism 806 is decoupled by the interface which activates the coupling mechanism 806 in the decoupling position, allowing the rack 823 to drive the hour and minute gear trains of the watch 200 in the counterclockwise direction as many times as necessary. This drive is carried out until the pawl 801 comes into contact with the opening of the ratchet teeth of the hour cam, this block corresponding to the reference display position.

[0414] - 8D: second stage. The position of the indicators 4, 5 is maintained for time setting. The time setting function controlled by the clock 100 sets the time of the indicators 4, 5 of the watch 200 in a clockwise direction to the exact time by rewinding the rack 823.

[0415] -8E: Third phase. With a second displacement of the interface between the clock 100 and the watch 200, the coupling mechanism 806 is coupled by the interface which actuates the coupling mechanism 806 towards a coupled position in order to reconnect the final gear train with the display gear train. During the third phase, the interface makes it possible to rewind the rack 823 or to complete the rewinding of the rack 823 started during the second phase.

[0416] 8F: More specifically, the value of a predetermined time setting step is determined and during the second stage the position of the display is maintained in a reference position by cooperation between a jumper 804 and a star wheel contained in the watch 200, which then allows rewinding of the rack 823 step by step at each subsequent position without losing the indication.

[0417] 8G: More specifically, the star wheel supported by the minute indicator 5 is selected to be either a 30-tooth star wheel in cooperation with a simple 1-tooth jumper 804, or a 15-tooth minute barrel pinion pinion. The 15-tooth minute barrel pinion pinion simultaneously cooperates with one tooth of a double jumper 8040 containing two teeth.

[0418] 8H: More specifically, the hour marker or minute wheel of the wristwatch 200 is accurately positioned by a combination of a star wheel integral with the hour marker or minute wheel and a jumper having one or more teeth, the number of teeth on the star wheel and the number of teeth on the jumper together defining the value of a given step.

[0419] 8I: In particular, the coupling mechanism 806 includes a friction spring 809 .

[0420] 8J: More specifically, a chronograph coupling mechanism including a clamp 821 is used as coupling mechanism 806. The function of the coupling mechanism 806 is to ensure coupling and decoupling under the control of a column wheel 840, which controls the angular deviation of the arms of the clamps 821, 822 to open and close the clamps, which opening and closing correspond to coupling or decoupling, respectively.

[0421] 8K: More precisely, a three-stage control mechanism is used.

[0422] 8L: More specifically, a control mechanism is used that includes at least one column wheel 840.

[0423] The ninth variant relates to a step-by-step time setting method and mechanism for the hour and minute indicators. The invention proposes a solution to the function of time setting the indicators of a watch in steps of 2 minutes after resetting to a reference position, in particular 12h00, as described in the seventh and eighth variants. The indicators are controlled by an interface of a synchronized table clock, the data acquisition mechanism of which for setting the time is as described above in the sixth variant.

[0424] A ninth variant also relates to enabling the execution of a cycle for a first displacement of the interface between a watch and a clock, the corrector performing, for example, the following functions in the watch at any time: - returning the indicator to the position corresponding to the current time by a defined number of steps relative to its original position, e.g. 12h00; - Return the indicator to a position corresponding to the current time plus an offset. The offset allows waiting for the seconds signal to release the watch resonator at the correct time setting.

[0425] This specification relates to a non-limiting configuration of the mechanism for setting the time in steps of 2 minutes, steps of 1 minute, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 6 minutes and 10 minutes are also possible.

[0426] The watch includes: a corrector 932 that matches the interface of the clock or another element allowing the transmission of reciprocating motion, a rocker lever 931 including an arm 921 capable of driving the teeth of a cannon pinion with a reciprocating motion; a jumper 904 that maintains the position of the minutes indicator in the interval of the drive function; - a star wheel with 30 teeth supported by a minute indicator in steps of 2 minutes, as in the seventh variant; a coupling mechanism 906 between the display gear train 905-907-908 and the final gear train 910. The coupling mechanism 906, as in the seventh or eighth variant, can be in an open position during time setting and closed while the watch is running.

[0427] In the particular embodiment shown, a 15-tooth cannon pinion 905 is advantageously used, which also has to replace the 30-tooth star wheel. This option is not limiting and the star wheel must be defined according to the desired number of steps per minute: Ze=60 min / 2 min. The 15-tooth cannon pinion therefore has 30 stable positions thanks to the double jumper 904 described in FIG. 25 and the gradation of the two bearing surfaces 922 and 923 offset from the arm 921 of the rocker lever 931.

[0428] Thus, initially, the first stable position corresponds to the reference position, ie the indication obtained after resetting to, for example, 12h00.

[0429] The coupling clutch is in the open position relative to the final gear train 910, as shown in Figure 24. The indicator is therefore independent of the gear train of the watch, which is furthermore stopped during this function by the stop lever.

[0430] For the time setting function, the clock, according to the sixth variant, transmits through the interface the number of defined displacements necessary to reach the current time in steps of two minutes. The clock transmits one or two further steps, allowing a waiting time until the seconds signal.

[0431] The clock interface cooperates with a watch corrector 932 which drives a rocker lever 931. This rocker lever 931 is arranged to drive a 30-tooth star wheel by one step, or in an alternative embodiment a 15-tooth pinion by half a step.

[0432] As shown in FIG. 25, the rocker lever 931 drives the 15-tooth pinion through 80% of the step, returns to its rest position, and then the jumper ensures the remaining travel through the remaining 20% ​​of the step in progress, positioning the pinion in the next half step.

[0433] This embodiment is responsive to a desired time setting function, which allows the clock to displace the display to the current time by a step of 2 minutes and add an offset.

[0434] In summary, the method for stepwise time setting of the hour and minute indicators comprises various steps which are described below.

[0435] 9A: The reference position of the display is defined.

[0436] 9B: Use of the watch 200. The watch 200 includes a corrector 932 that cooperates with the interface of the clock 100 to transmit the reciprocating motion, a rocker lever 931 that can drive the teeth of the cannon pinion of the minute indicator 5 by the reciprocating motion, and a jumper 904 that maintains the position of the minute indicator in the interval of the drive function, the watch 200 also includes a coupling mechanism 906 between the display gear train 905, 907, 908 and the final gear train 910. Also, at any time, the clock 100 can return the indicators 4, 5 to a position corresponding to the current time read on the clock 100, or to another position corresponding to the current time plus an offset, by driving the teeth of the minute indicator 5 by a defined number of steps relative to a reference position by means of the rocker lever 931. This offset allows waiting for a seconds signal that enables the stop mechanism 20 to release the resonator 10 of the watch 200. This release is achieved by partially actuating the minute indicator 5 by means of a rocker lever 931 which performs only a portion of the stroke corresponding to each tooth. The remainder of the stroke of each tooth, which completes the indexing rotation of the minute indicator 5, is then performed under the pulse of the jumper 904.

[0437] 9C: Determine a predetermined time setting step value.

[0438] 9D: The hour marker or minute wheel of the wristwatch 200 is accurately positioned by a combination of a star wheel integral with the hour marker or minute wheel and a jumper having one or more teeth, the number of teeth on the star wheel and the number of teeth on the jumper together defining the value of a given step.

[0439] 9E: More specifically, the hour marker or minute wheel of the wristwatch 200 is driven by a combination of a star wheel which is integral with the hour marker or minute wheel and a rocker lever or a driver or rack, and this movement is controlled by the table clock 100.

[0440] 9F: More specifically, in a first stage, the clock 100 controls the stop mechanism 20 to stop the resonator 10, returns the displays 4, 5 to their reference positions, and places the coupling mechanism 906 in an open position relative to the final gear train 910. In this case, the final gear train 910 is independent of the gear train of the wristwatch 200.

[0441] 9G: More specifically, in a second step, the clock 100 communicates, through its interface, the prescribed number of displacements required to reach the current time, in a given step integer number. 9H: More precisely, in a second step, the clock 100 transmits, through its interface, the defined number of displacements necessary to reach the current time, in a predefined step integer, plus one or two displacements, which correspond to one or two further predefined steps, allowing a waiting time until the seconds signal that enables the stop mechanism 20 to release the resonator 10 of the watch 200.

[0442] 9I: More specifically, the wristwatch 200 is used. The rocker lever 931 of the wristwatch 200 is configured to drive a 30-tooth star wheel by one step or a 15-tooth pinion by half a step.

[0443] 9J: More specifically, the wristwatch 200 is used. The rocker lever 931 of the wristwatch 200 is configured to drive the 15-tooth pinion by half a step, drive the 15-tooth pinion through 80% of the travel, and return to the rest position of the rocker lever 931, and the jumper 904 ensures the remaining 20% ​​of the current travel and positions the 15-tooth pinion in the next half step.

[0444] 9K: More specifically, the use of a watch 200. The watch 200 comprises a mechanism for setting the time in certain steps, a corrector 932 that matches the interface of the clock 100 or another element allowing the transmission of a reciprocating motion, a rocker lever 931 capable of driving the teeth of a cannon pinion by a reciprocating motion, a jumper 904 configured to maintain the position of the minute indicator in the interval of the drive function, a star wheel supported by the minute indicator and having a number of teeth depending on the value of the required step, and a coupling mechanism 906 between the display gear train 905, 907, 908 and the final gear train 910. The coupling mechanism 906 is in an open position during the time setting and can be closed during the operation of the watch 200. The interface of the clock 100 is configured to cooperate with the corrector 932 of the watch 200, which drives the rocker lever 931 configured to drive the star wheel by one or half a step.

[0445] 9L: More specifically, a watch 200 is used in which the star wheel is formed by the minute pinion.

[0446] The seventh and eighth variants implement a function controller that ensures the progression of the function through the various stages.

[0447] In a seventh variant, the function controller has three positions: -Start of function: the function controller controls the decoupling of the final gear train, stops the balance and releases the hammers; -Time setting function: The function controller winds up the hammer, End of function: the function controller releases the coupling clutch and the balance.

[0448] In an eighth variant, the controller has two positions: -Start of function: the controller controls the decoupling of the final gear train and stops the balance; End of function: the function controller releases the coupling clutch and the balance.

[0449] The present invention proposes various embodiments, but is not limited to them, in which a specific controller is integrated into the watch, similar to that used in chronographs, or the controller is external to the watch and integrated into a clock. If the controller is integrated into the watch, the following may be used: - a column-wheel type rotary controller (with 2 to 5 consecutive stable positions 1-2-3-1-2-3-1 etc.) controlled by an interface, -Shuttle type reciprocating controller (two consecutive stable positions: 1-2-1-2-1 etc.) controlled by the interface.

[0450] When the controller is in a clock, the watch only contains a reciprocating cam, which is controlled by the interface and returns to rest by default (a stable rest position and one to three control positions 1-2-3-2-1-2-3 etc.).

[0451] The implementation by a column wheel is well adapted to the seventh variant. For example, a column wheel with three positions is selected, which are selected successively by the clock through a tuning interface. This column wheel controls three rocker levers in the manner of a chronograph, which rocker levers control or are part of the mechanisms of a coupling clutch, a stop lever and one or more hammers. These rocker levers are arranged to be mounted on the column of the column wheel so that they can be activated as required.

[0452] The various positions are as follows: Position 0: Initial and final position: coupling clutch active, stop lever inactive, hammer wound up; - Position 1: Return to reference position, specifically 12h00. Coupling clutch is disabled, stop lever is enabled, hammer is released. - Position 2: Time setting: coupling clutch is disabled, stop lever is enabled, hammer is wound up, - Position 0: After a full rotation, return.

[0453] This embodiment may be applied to the eighth variant having a two-position column wheel.

[0454] The second embodiment with a simple shuttle can replace the column wheel, in the eighth variant where two positions are sufficient.

[0455] The embodiment in which the controller is in a clock is well suited to the seventh variant. The three-position column wheel already described is functionally replaced by a three-level spiral cam located in the clock. This spiral cam controls in a reciprocating motion a cam in the watch. This cam controls, as required, a coupling clutch, a stop lever and one or more hammers.

[0456] The various positions are as follows: Position 0: Initial and final position: coupling clutch active, stop lever inactive, hammer wound up; - Position 1: Return to the reference position, specifically 12h00. The coupling clutch is disabled, the stop lever is enabled, the hammer is released. - Position 2: Time setting: coupling clutch is disabled, stop lever is enabled, hammer is wound up, - Position 0: Return the cam to zero.

[0457] This embodiment, where the controller is external to the watch, is interesting because it prevents the watch from still being in position 1 or position 2 when it is unexpectedly removed from the clock (during the execution of a function).

[0458] This arrangement is adapted to prevent the hammer from dropping when switching to position 1 while returning to position 0.

[0459] This embodiment in which the controller is in a clock can be applied to the eighth variant with the spiral cam and the two-position cam.

[0460] In summary, such a control would respond to the desired time setting functions, allow decoupling and coupling of the indicator from the final gear train, allow control of the hammer if required, and allow control of the stop lever.

[0461] Of course, the use of such a controller is also applicable to the other variants mentioned above.

[0462] These different variants thus make it possible to fulfil the following functions: -Starting a stopped watch when it is placed on a clock; - Guarantee a minimum battery life of 12 hours when the watch is removed from the clock for wearing; -Keeping the watch in working order while it is on the clock; - setting the watch to the time when it is placed on the clock or on request, with an accuracy of approximately ±15 seconds; -Keeping a watch on time as long as it is on a clock; Alternatively, the tuning assembly 1000 may include the option of having a decoupling mechanism to disable the function in order to store the stopped watch on the clock.

[0463] More specifically, the first interface includes a first external actuator in the clock and a first internal actuator in the wristwatch.

[0464] Similarly, the second interface includes a second external actuator in the clock and a second internal actuator in the wristwatch.

[0465] Similarly, the third interface includes a third external actuator in the clock and a third internal actuator in the wristwatch.

[0466] Similarly, generalizing to a larger number of interfaces, the nth interface includes the nth external actuator in the clock and the nth internal actuator in the wristwatch.

[0467] The synchronizing assemblies and various methods that address the many different usage scenarios described above are based on non-striking clocks and watches.

[0468] It should be appreciated that it is possible to make such a synchronizing assembly with a striking clock and / or a striking watch.

[0469] A striking mechanism has the advantage of providing an accurate reference for setting time. Those skilled in the art may envision its use for setting time in synchronized watches.

[0470] But precautions must be taken.

[0471] The striking volute can be used for the time-setting mechanism, in the example of time-setting carried out in 5-minute steps. The corresponding volute would have to have 144 bearings for 5-minute steps and is not used for striking. In the case of striking, the volute is logically even specific, since it essentially jumps together with the surprise piece mechanism. The watch can be a striking watch, but this makes the system slightly more complicated, since it is necessary to isolate the striking during the synchronizing operation in which the synchronizing watches 100 and 200 cooperate, since the striking would strike continuously during the time-setting and could cause the mechanism to malfunction.

[0472] Although it makes the implementation more complicated, it is possible to create a mechanism for such a striking watch, provided that an isolator is inserted between them, in which case the striking cam of the watch is driven by the synchronised time setting.

[0473] Only the basic winding and time setting functions have been described herein, but of course the transmission of other information relating to other variables is possible by extrapolation: second time zones, day-night indication, AM / PM, date and more generally calendar elements, etc.

Claims

1. A method for setting a synchronized wristwatch (200) to a reference time by means of a synchronized clock (100), said synchronized wristwatch (200) forming a synchronization assembly (1000) together with said clock (100), said synchronization assembly (1000) including a connection mechanism including at least two separate transmission lines between said clock (100) and said wristwatch (200) when said wristwatch (200) is placed in a receptacle (150) included in said clock (100) in a transmission position, said wristwatch (200) including at least one resonator (10), a display gear train, a final gear train, and The method further comprises a stop mechanism (20) configured to stop the operation of the resonator (10) and / or the resonator (10), the watch (200) comprising at least one hour indicator (4) and one minute indicator (5) in which a reference position is defined, the method comprising using one of the watches (200), the watch (200) comprising a rack (823) engaging with an hour wheel (808), the hour wheel (808) being integral with the hour indicator (4) of the watch and supporting an hour cam (802) including a notch for the teeth of a ratchet wheel, the rack (823) engaging with an hour wheel (808) and a ratchet spring (8010) for supporting the hour cam (802) including a notch for the teeth of the ratchet wheel. and a pawl (801) bearingably held on a wheel (802) of said hour wheel (808), said rack (823) being configured to tick in a clockwise direction of said hour wheel (808) and driven by a return spring (825), said watch (200) further comprising a rack pinion (824) or hour pinion, said rack pinion (824) being configured to drive and wind said rack (823), said rack (823) ticking on each tooth during normal operation of said watch (200) when said watch (200) is not cooperating with said clock (100), said watch (200). further comprising a coupling mechanism (806) between the display gear trains (805, 807, 808) and the final gear train (810); and the setting of the watch (200) to the reference time is performed at any time by a cycle including three stages consisting of a first stage, a second stage and a third stage, during the first stage, a placement in the reference position is triggered by a first displacement of an interface between the clock (100) and the watch (200) and the setting of the display (4, 5) of the watch (200) to the reference time is performed, and the coupling mechanism (806)The coupling mechanism (806) is decoupled by the interface which operates the coupling mechanism (806) to a decoupling position, thereby allowing the rack (823) to drive the hour and minute gear trains of the watch (200) in a counterclockwise direction, said driving being performed until the pawl (801) comes into contact with the opening of the ratchet teeth of the hour cam and is blocked, said blocking corresponding to the reference position, and in the second stage the position of the indicators (4, 5) is maintained for time setting and by the clock (100). A controlled time setting mechanism sets the time of the indicator (4, 5) of the watch (200) to the exact time in a clockwise direction by rewinding the rack (823), and in the third stage, a second displacement of the interface between the clock (100) and the watch (200) reconnects the final gear train with the indicator gear train, the coupling mechanism (806) being coupled via the interface which actuates the coupling mechanism (806) towards a coupled position.

2. 2. A method for setting a synchronized watch (200) to a reference time as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, using the watch (200), the hour cam (802) comprises an opening (8020) and a minute cam (803), the minute cam (803) is supported by the minute indicator (5) of the watch and comprises an opening (8030) or notch (831) in the teeth of a ratchet wheel, the coupling mechanism (806) is disengaged by the interface which actuates the coupling mechanism (806) towards a coupling position, thereby enabling the rack (823) to drive the hour and minute gear trains of the watch (200) in a counterclockwise direction, the driving being performed until the pawl (801) contacts the opening (8020) of the hour cam (802) and is blocked in the opening (8030) in the teeth of the ratchet wheel of the minute cam (803), the blocking corresponding to the reference position.

3. 2. The method for setting the reference time according to claim 1, characterized in that during the second stage, the position of the indicator is maintained in the reference position by cooperation between a jumper (804) and a star wheel contained in the watch (200), allowing a rewinding of the rack (823) without losing the indication of the watch (200) at each subsequent position for each step of setting the time of the indicator (4, 5).

4. 4. The method for setting the reference time according to claim 3, characterized in that as the star wheel supported by the minute indicator (5), either a 30-tooth star wheel cooperating with a simple 1-tooth jumper (804) or a 15-tooth minute barrel pinion pinion is selected, and the 15-tooth minute barrel pinion pinion simultaneously cooperates with one tooth of a double jumper (8040) containing 2 teeth.

5. 4. The method for setting the reference time according to claim 3, characterized in that the hour hand or minute wheel of the wristwatch (200) is accurately positioned by a combination of a star wheel integral with the hour hand or minute wheel and a jumper having one or more teeth, the number of teeth of the star wheel and the number of teeth of the jumper together defining the value of the step for setting the time of the display (4, 5).

6. 2. The method for setting the reference time according to claim 1, characterized in that a chronograph coupling mechanism including a clamp (821) is used as the coupling mechanism (806), the function of the coupling mechanism (806) being to ensure coupling and decoupling under the control of a column wheel (840), the column wheel (840) opening and closing the clamp by controlling the angular deviation of the arms (821, 822) of the clamp, the opening and closing corresponding to the coupling or decoupling, respectively.

7. 2. The method for setting the reference time according to claim 1, further comprising the step of using a mechanism for controlling said three stages.

8. 7. The method for setting a reference time according to claim 6, further comprising using a mechanism for controlling the three stages, the mechanism including at least one of the column wheels (840).

9. A synchronized timepiece assembly (1000) for carrying out the method for setting to a reference time according to claim 1, said synchronized timepiece assembly (1000) including at least one synchronized wristwatch (200) and a synchronized table clock (100) having a receptacle (150) for receiving one of said synchronized wristwatches (200) at a single transmission position, and performing a power re-on and / or display adjustment and / or rate adjustment cycle controlled by said table clock (100) or said wristwatch (200) through a connection mechanism, said connection mechanism connecting said table clock (100) and said wristwatch (200) at said transmission position. ), the watch (200) includes at least one power storage barrel that supplies power to at least one resonator (10), the watch (200) includes at least one resonator (10), and a display gear train, and a final gear train, and / or a stop mechanism (20) configured to stop the operation of the resonator (10), or a coupling mechanism that allows the display to be separated from the final gear train, or both the stop mechanism (20) and the coupling mechanism, the watch (200) includes at least one hour indicator (4), and one minute indicator (5), In the synchronized timepiece assembly (1000) including a display (5) and / or at least one display (3, 4, 5), the wristwatch (200) includes at least one mechanism that can be enabled or disabled by an all-or-nothing actuator of the clock (100), and the wristwatch (200) includes at least one receiver that can receive a series of pulses or mechanical torque coming from an actuator of the clock (100), the wristwatch (200) includes a pawl (801) and a rack (823) configured to mesh with an hour wheel (808) and advance in a clockwise direction from said hour wheel (808) with a sound, the rack (823) being driven by a return spring (825); an hour rack pinion (824); at least one hour cam (802) supported by said hour wheel (808); and a jumper (804), the jumper (804) cooperating with a star wheel supported by a minute display movable body (805) and configured to maintain each display position according to a predetermined regular step.

10. The synchronizing assembly (1000) according to claim 9, characterized in that the hour cam (802) includes an opening (8020) and the watch (200) further includes a minute cam (803) supported by a minute display movable body (805) and including an opening (8030) or a notch (831) in the teeth of a ratchet wheel, and a jumper (804), the jumper (804) cooperating with a star wheel supported by the minute display movable body (805) and configured to maintain each display position according to predetermined regular steps.

11. the rack pinion (824) is configured to drive and wind the rack (823), the rack (823) ticking away with each tooth during normal operation of the watch (200) when the watch (200) is not cooperating with the clock (100), and the watch (200) includes the coupling mechanism (806) between the display gear train (805, 807, 808) and the final gear train (810), and the tuning assembly (1000) includes an interface between the clock (100) and the watch (200), the interface being configured to move the coupling mechanism (806) towards a decoupling position.

10. The synchronizing assembly (1000) according to claim 9, characterized in that the synchronizing assembly (1000) is configured to decouple the coupling mechanism (806) by actuating a gear mechanism (823) that allows the rack (823) to drive the hour and minute gear trains of the watch (200) in a counterclockwise direction for the required number of revolutions, said driving being carried out until the pawl (801) contacts the opening of the ratchet wheel teeth of the hour cam (802) and is blocked in the opening of the ratchet wheel teeth, said contact corresponding to a predetermined reference position of the indicators (3, 4, 5) of the watch (200), and said blocking corresponding to said reference position.

12. The rack pinion (824) is configured to drive and wind the rack (823), which ticks with each tooth during normal operation of the watch (200) when the watch (200) is not cooperating with the clock (100), and the watch (200) includes the coupling mechanism (806) between the display gear train (805, 807, 808) and the final gear train (810), and the tuning assembly (1000) includes an interface between the clock (100) and the watch (200), which interface actuates the coupling mechanism (806) towards a decoupling position.

10. The synchronization assembly (1000) of claim 9, characterized in that the synchronization assembly (1000) is configured to decouple the coupling mechanism (806) by pressing the rack (823) against the hour cam (802) so as to enable the rack (823) to drive the hour and minute gear trains of the watch (200) in a counterclockwise direction, the driving being performed until the pawl (801) contacts the opening (8020) of the hour cam (802) and is supported by the minute indicator mobile body (805) and is blocked in the ratchet wheel tooth opening (8030) or in the ratchet wheel tooth opening (8030) of the minute cam (803) including a notch (831), the blocking corresponding to the reference position.

13. A synchronized timepiece assembly (1000) as described in claim 9, characterized in that the time setting mechanism controlled by the clock (100) is configured to set the time of the display (4, 5) of the wristwatch (200) in a clockwise direction towards the exact time by rewinding the rack (823).

14. The synchronized timepiece assembly (1000) of claim 11, characterized in that the interface between the clock (100) and the wristwatch (200) is further configured to reconnect the final gear train and the display gear train by coupling the coupling mechanism (806) to rewind the rack (823) or complete the rewinding of the rack (823).

15. A synchronized timepiece assembly (1000) as described in claim 9, characterized in that the cooperation between the jumper (804) and the star wheel makes it possible to maintain the display position at each stage and allows the rack (823) to be rewinded without losing the display of the watch (200).

16. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 11, wherein the coupling mechanism (806) includes a friction spring (809).

17. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 11, characterized in that the coupling mechanism (806) is a chronograph coupling mechanism including a clamp (821), the function of which is to ensure coupling and decoupling under the control of a column wheel (840), which controls the angular misalignment of the arms of the clamps (821, 822) to open and close the clamps, which opening and closing of the clamps correspond to decoupling or coupling, respectively.

18. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 9, characterized in that the tuning assembly (1000) includes a control mechanism for controlling placement of the indicator within the reference position.

19. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 17, characterized in that the tuning assembly (1000) includes a control mechanism that controls positioning of the indicator within the reference position, the control mechanism including at least one of the column wheels (840).

20. 20. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 18, wherein the control mechanism is capable of occupying at least two positions, a first position corresponding to the start of a function, the control mechanism being configured to control the decoupling of the final gear train and to stop the balance of the resonator, and a second position corresponding to the end of a function, the control mechanism being configured to release the coupling clutch and the balance.

21. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 20, characterized in that the control mechanism is integrated into the wristwatch 200 and includes either a column wheel type rotary controller controlled by the interface with two to five consecutive stable positions, or a shuttle type reciprocating controller controlled by the interface with two consecutive stable positions.

22. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 20, characterized in that the control mechanism is external to the watch (200) and housed within the clock (100), and that the watch (200) includes only a reciprocating cam that is controlled by the interface and returns to rest by default, and includes a stable rest position and 1 to 3 controlled positions.

23. 21. The tuning assembly (1000) of claim 20, wherein the control mechanism includes a spiral cam and a two position cam.

Images