Support device for a timepiece or piece of jewellery

The support device with rotating discs and grooves addresses instability and security issues in watch and jewelry holders, ensuring stable and intuitive use and aesthetic presentation.

WO2026132959A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-06-25LEATHERTIME SÀRL

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
LEATHERTIME SÀRL
Filing Date
2025-12-01
Publication Date
2026-06-25

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing watch and jewelry support devices suffer from instability, security issues, and user-intuitive challenges due to angled fins that can cause slippage and detachment, complicating aesthetic presentation and handling.

Method used

A support device with rotating discs and grooves angled between 0° and 12° relative to the base, allowing fins to be inserted and rotated, ensuring stable attachment and easy alignment, preventing slippage and detachment.

Benefits of technology

The solution provides enhanced stability and security, simplifying use by reducing errors and maintaining aesthetic presentation under varied conditions.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a support device (1) for a timepiece or piece of jewellery, comprising: - a support comprising: - two walls (20), each comprising a wall groove (22), - a rotary disc (200) which comprises an axis of rotation (208) and a disc groove (202), and is designed to be rotated about the axis (208), the disc groove (202) being aligned with the wall groove (22) when at rest and forming an angle of between 0° and 12° with respect to a direction (z) when at rest, - a cushion (10) comprising two lateral fins (12). Each fin (12) is designed to be inserted via the wall groove (22) into the disc groove (202), and the cushion (10) is designed to be rotated by the user, thereby rotating each rotatable disc (200) about its axis (208), which prevents the cushion (10) from disengaging from the support device (1).
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Description

Support device for watch, jewelry or precious metal parts technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a support device for watch, jewelry or precious metal parts. State of the art

[0002] Watch cases, particularly those for wristwatches, such as display cases or boxes, are often designed to present the watch aesthetically and in an accessible way. These cases typically include a cushion to hold the watch, which may be equipped with side wings.

[0003] These fins are designed to fit into inclined grooves, arranged at an angle of approximately 75° to the vertical, allowing the watch to be presented at an optimal angle for showcasing its beauty.

[0004] However, this design has a limitation: when the case or box is tilted or subjected to movement, the cushion and watch can slide along the angled grooves. This instability can compromise not only the aesthetic presentation but also the security of the watch in its holder.

[0005] Another drawback of existing solutions lies in the insertion of the cushion's fins into grooves inclined at 75°. This inclination makes the operation less intuitive for the user, who may encounter difficulties in correctly aligning the fins with the grooves, which can complicate the use of the device and potentially lead to handling errors. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0006] Furthermore, the watch's attachment to the cushion may also lack stability. If the watch does not exert sufficient pressure to grip the cushion, for example due to the size or fit of the strap, it may slip when the cushion is moved.

[0007] This phenomenon can cause the watch to detach from the cushion, which is a problem, particularly for the security of the watch and its presentation.

[0008] These issues are not limited to watches or timepieces in general, but also concern jewelry, precious pieces, or any item, especially any precious piece, which must be kept in a stable manner and presented from an aesthetic point of view, while ensuring its safety during handling.

[0009] Document CH700416 describes a case containing a watch or jewelry holder. This holder can rotate around an axis of rotation.

[0010] Document JP2002243868 describes another self-winding wristwatch case, comprising a cylindrical rotating body. Brief summary of the invention

[0011] One aim of the present invention is to provide a support device for watch, jewelry or precious metal parts that is free from the limitations of known support devices for watch, jewelry or precious metal parts.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a support device for watch, jewelry, or gemstone parts which LEATHE-1-PCT offers better security and integrity of the supported part, while maintaining an aesthetic and reliable presentation, even under varied handling or display conditions.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a support device for watch, jewelry or gemstone parts which improves ease of use while maintaining the stability and safety of the supported part.

[0014] An optional objective of the present invention is also to provide a support device for watchmaking, jewelry or fine jewelry parts which allows for a more secure holding of the cushion-part assembly.

[0015] According to the invention, these goals are achieved in particular by means of the support device for watchmaking, jewelry or precious metal parts according to claim 1, preferred embodiments being given in the dependent claims.

[0016] The support device for watch, jewelry, or precious metal parts according to the invention comprises: - a support including: - two walls, each wall comprising a circular housing, arranged to receive a rotating disc, and a wall groove, - a base connecting the two walls, - the rotating disc, comprising an axis of rotation and a disc groove, and being arranged to be rotated about the axis of rotation, the disc groove being at rest aligned with the wall groove and forming at rest an angle between 0° and 12° with respect to a direction perpendicular to the base, - a cushion intended to be at least partially surrounded by the timepiece, jewelry or gemstone, the cushion comprising two lateral wings. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0017] According to the invention, each lateral fin is arranged to be inserted via the wall groove into the groove of each disc, in which it is received and it has a length (namely its main dimension) equal to or less than the length of the disc groove.

[0018] According to the invention, the cushion is then arranged to be rotated by the user, thus turning each rotating disc around its axis of rotation, which prevents the cushion from detaching from the support device. In other words, since the fins are inserted into the grooves of the rotating discs, this allows each rotating disc, and therefore the groove of the disc, to be rotated around its axis of rotation.

[0019] The wall groove is therefore no longer aligned with the disc groove, which prevents the cushion from detaching from the support device.

[0020] The device according to the invention offers better stability and prevents the risks of slippage of existing solutions, particularly when tilting or moving.

[0021] Thanks to the angle of the rotating disc groove between 0° and 12° relative to the direction perpendicular to the base of the support device, inserting the fins into the grooves is also easier for the user. The support device according to the invention thus simplifies its use, reducing the risk of errors, while maintaining the stability and safety of the supported workpiece.

[0022] The insertion of the cushion is then facilitated and followed by a rotation of the cushion, which places the cushion at an angle allowing a good view of the supported part. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0023] Thus, the support device according to the invention guarantees the safety and integrity of the supported part, while maintaining an aesthetic and reliable presentation, even under various handling or exposure conditions.

[0024] In one embodiment, each wall includes (at least) a means for guiding the rotation of the rotating disk.

[0025] In one embodiment, the guiding means includes at least one through opening in the shape of a circular arc.

[0026] In one embodiment, the support includes (at least) a means of stopping.

[0027] In one embodiment, the stop means is a lug that can pivot in the arc-shaped opening.

[0028] In one embodiment, the angle of rotation of the cushion is within the range of 70°-75° with respect to the direction perpendicular to the base.

[0029] In one embodiment, the cushion has two parts arranged to be in contact with the supported part and a fastening element arranged to join the two parts in a flexible or elastic manner, in order to hold the part once mounted on the cushion regardless of the position of the cushion.

[0030] In one embodiment, the support device includes a cover arranged to protect the timepiece, jewelry or gemstone. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0031] In one embodiment, the cover is arranged to be fixed to the base of the support device or to a housing, for example by screwing, clipping, etc.

[0032] The present invention also relates to a case comprising the support device according to the invention, for example a rotating case.

[0033] The present invention also relates to a case comprising the support device according to the invention.

[0034] According to an independent aspect, the present invention relates to a cushion for a support device for a watch, jewelry or precious metal part, the cushion comprising two parts in contact with the supported part and a fastening element arranged to join the two parts flexibly, in order to hold the watch once mounted on the cushion independently of the position of the cushion. Brief description of the figures

[0035] Examples of implementation of the invention are given in the description illustrated by the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a support device for a watch, jewelry or precious metal part according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the support device of Figure 1. Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the support device of Figure 1. LEATHE-1-PCT Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the support device of Figure 1, including a cover. Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a first and second lateral view of a wall of the support device of Figure 1. Figures 6A, 6B and 6C illustrate a front, side and rear view respectively of the rotating disk of the support device of Figure 1. Figures 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D illustrate a side view, exploded side view, top view respectively of the cushion of the support device of Figure 1. Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of part of the cushion in Figures 7A to 7D. Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a support device for a watch, jewelry or precious metal part according to another embodiment of the invention. Example(s) of embodiment(s) of the invention

[0036] In the following description, provided by way of example, reference will be made, for simplicity, to a case, in particular a rotating case, comprising the support device according to the invention. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to such use, but also includes support devices used in isolation, or in the context of another purpose, for example, but not limited to, a box. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0037] In the following description, provided by way of example, reference will be made, for simplicity, to a support device comprising a cushion in two parts connected by a flexible or elastic fastening element. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to such a cushion, but also includes one-piece or multi-part cushions lacking any flexible or elastic fastening element.

[0038] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a support device 1 for a watch, jewelry, or precious metal component (not shown) according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the support device 1 of Figure 1. Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the support device 1 of Figure 1. Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the support device 1 of Figure 1, including a cover.

[0039] In the embodiment of figures 1 to 4, the support device 1 forms with the other illustrated elements a case, in particular a rotating case.

[0040] The support device 1 in Figures 1 to 54 comprises: - a support including: - two walls 20, which in figure 1 are substantially parallel, - a base 30 connecting the two walls 20, - a cushion 10 intended to be at least partially surrounded by the watch, jewelry or jewelry piece, the cushion 10 comprising two lateral fins 12, visible in particular on figures 7C and 7D.

[0041] In the embodiment of Figure 1, the base 30 is at least partially received in a housing 44.

[0042] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the base 30 is substantially circular. However, this shape should not be LEATHE-1-PCT considered limiting and the base could have other shapes, for example a polygonal, elliptical, oval shape, etc.

[0043] In one embodiment, this housing 44 is arranged to rotate the base 30 around the z-axis, at a rotational speed suitable for winding a mechanical wristwatch supported by the support device 1. In this regard, the housing 44 includes a motor, the electronics and the mechanics necessary to rotate the base 30.

[0044] In one embodiment, the housing 40 is substantially cylindrical.

[0045] In one embodiment, the housing 40 includes an external surface 44 which, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, is substantially flat. This allows, for example, the creation of another bearing surface or support for the device 1, enabling it to be inclined in an unusual and particularly aesthetically pleasing manner. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, this surface 44 is substantially rectangular; however, it could have other shapes, such as the one illustrated in Figure 9.

[0046] The possible cover 50 could also include an external surface 55 for the same reasons, which aligns with the surface 44 when the cover 50 protects the part, as illustrated for example in Figure 4.

[0047] In the embodiment of Figure 4, the support device 1 includes a cover 50 arranged to protect the watch, jewelry or gemstone. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0048] In one embodiment, the cover 50 is arranged to be fixed to the base 30 of the support device 1 or to the housing 44, for example by screwing, clipping, etc.

[0049] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a first and second lateral view of a wall 20 of the support device 1 of Figure 1. Figures 6A, 6B and 6C illustrate a front, lateral and rear view of the rotating disk 200 of the support device 1 of Figure 1.

[0050] As illustrated for example in figures 5A to 6B, each wall 20 has an external surface (figure 5A) and an internal surface (figure 5B) opposite to the internal one.

[0051] Each wall 20 also has a foot 23 arranged to be received or supported by the base 30.

[0052] The shape of wall 20 as illustrated in figures 5A and 5B should not be considered limiting.

[0053] Each internal surface of the wall 20 includes a circular housing 24, arranged to receive the rotating disk 200, and a wall groove 22.

[0054] In one embodiment, the outer wall of each wall 20 includes means for guiding the rotation of the rotating disk 200 26. In the embodiment of Figures 5A and 5B, these guiding means 26 include two through openings in the form of an arc of a circle, arranged isometrically with respect to the housing 28 arranged to receive the axis of rotation 208 of the rotating disk 200, visible for example in Figure 6A. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0055] However, a single through-opening in the shape of a circular arc might be sufficient to guide the rotation of the 200 disk.

[0056] In one embodiment, the support 1, and in particular the disc 200, includes stop means 206. In one embodiment, the stop means 206 are two lugs, visible for example in Figure 6A, which can pivot in the arc-shaped openings 26.

[0057] However, a single lug 206 might be sufficient as a means of stopping.

[0058] As illustrated in Figures 6A to 6C, the rotating disk 200 comprises a rotation axis 208 and a disk groove 202. It is arranged to be rotated about the rotation axis 208.

[0059] At rest, i.e. without its initial position, when the cushion 10 is inserted, the groove of the disc 202 is substantially aligned with the wall groove 22 and forms an angle between 0° and 12° with respect to the direction z perpendicular to the base 30.

[0060] According to the invention, each lateral fin 12 is arranged to be inserted via the wall groove into the groove of each disc, where it is received. Indeed, each fin 12 has a length (namely its main dimension) equal to or less than the length of the groove in the disc 202.

[0061] According to the invention, the cushion 10, once its fins are received in the grooves of the disc 202, is then arranged to be rotated by the user. Since the fins 12 are received in the grooves 202 of the rotating discs 200, this allows each rotating disc 200, and therefore each groove 202 of the disc, to be rotated around its axis of rotation 208, relative to the walls 20. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0062] Following this rotation, the wall groove 22 is no longer aligned with the groove of the disc 202, which prevents the cushion 10 from detaching from the support device 1.

[0063] The support device 1 according to the invention therefore offers better stability and prevents the risks of slippage of the supported part of existing solutions, particularly when tilting or moving it.

[0064] Thanks to the angle of the groove in the rotating disc 202, between 0° and 12° relative to the z-direction perpendicular to the base 30 of the support device 1 at rest, the insertion of the fins 12 into the grooves 22, 202 is also easier for a user. The support device according to the invention thus simplifies its use, reducing the risk of errors, while maintaining the stability and safety of the supported workpiece.

[0065] The insertion of the cushion 10 is then followed by a rotation of the cushion, 10 which places the cushion at an angle allowing a good view of the supported part.

[0066] Thus, the support device 1 according to the invention guarantees the safety and integrity of the supported part, while maintaining an aesthetic and reliable presentation, even under various handling or exposure conditions.

[0067] In one embodiment, the angle of rotation of the cushion 10 is within the range of 70°-75° with respect to the z direction perpendicular to the base 30.

[0068] Figures 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D illustrate a side view, an exploded side view, and a top view, respectively, of the cushion. LEATHE-1-PCT 10 of the support device 1 of Figure 1. Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of part of the cushion 1 of Figures 7A to 7D.

[0069] In the embodiment of figures 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D, the cushion 10 has two parts 101, 102 arranged to be in contact with the supported part (not shown) and a fastening element 103 arranged to join the two parts 101, 102 in a flexible or elastic manner, in order to hold the part once mounted on the cushion 10 independently of the position of the cushion 10.

[0070] In other words, in the absence of the supported part, the fastening element 103 is arranged to maintain an initial distance in the z direction between the two parts 101, 102. When the part surrounds (at least partially) the cushion 10, the fastening element 103 is arranged to compress so that the distance in the z direction between the two parts 101, 102 is less than the initial one.

[0071] In one embodiment, the fins 12 are attached to the second part 102 of the cushion.

[0072] In one embodiment, the joining element 103 in the xy plane has a maximum dimension less than the maximum dimension of each of the two parts 101, 102 in the xy plane.

[0073] In one embodiment, the fastening element 103 is telescopic.

[0074] In one embodiment, the fastening element 103 is or includes an elastic element such as, for example and without limitation, a spiral spring. LEATHE-1-PCT

[0075] In one embodiment, the fastening element 103 is attached to the first part 101 of the cushion 10 and is arranged to be fixed to the second part 102 of the cushion 10.

[0076] In one embodiment, the fastening element 103 is arranged to be inserted into a blind opening 104 of the second part 102 of the cushion 10, visible for example in Figure 8.

[0077] In one embodiment, the cushion 10 includes a bayonet mechanism, namely a set of grooves and pins on the fastening element 103 and, respectively, on the second part 102 (particularly in the blind opening 104), or vice versa. In a known manner, the pins are aligned with the corresponding grooves, and a slight rotation engages the pins in notches. This creates a secure fastening through tension or pressure.

[0078] In one embodiment, the portions of the cushion 10 arranged to come into contact with the supported part and / or those visible to the user are made of velvet, microfiber, imitation leather or genuine leather, foam, satin or silky fabric, etc.

[0079] In one embodiment, each wall 20 is made of or comprises wood, for example solid wood (such as oak, walnut, etc.), veneered MDF for example (with wood veneer or lacquered finish), metal such as aluminum or stainless steel, plastic, leather or imitation leather on a wood or plastic structure, upholstered fabric, etc. LEATHE-1-PCT Reference symbols used in figures 1 Support device 10 Cushions 12 Fin 20 Side wall 22 Side wall groove 23 Foot of the side wall 24 Housing for the rotating disc 26 Guidance Means 28 Housing for axis 208 30 Base 40 Base Accommodation 44 External surface area of ​​the dwelling 50 Lid 101 First part of the cushion 102 Second part of the cushion 103 Element of solidarity 104 Through opening of the second part of the cushion 200 Rotary Disc 202 Rotating disc groove 206 Stopping Means 208 Axis of rotation of the rotating disk xyz Cartesian system LEATHE-1-PCT

Claims

Demands 1. Support device (1) for a watch, jewelry or precious metal component comprising: - a support including: - two walls (20), each wall (20) comprising a wall groove (22) and a circular housing (24), arranged to receive a rotating disk (200), - a base (30) connecting the two walls (20), - the rotating disk (200), comprising a rotation axis (208) and a disk groove (202), and being arranged to be rotated about the rotation axis (208), the disk groove (202) being at rest aligned with the wall groove (22) and forming at rest an angle between 0° and 12° with respect to a direction (z) perpendicular to the base (30), - a cushion (10) intended to be at least partially surrounded by the watch, jewelry or jewelry piece, the cushion (10) comprising two lateral fins (12), in which each lateral fin (12) is arranged to be inserted via the wall groove (22) into the disc groove (202) of each disc (200), in which it is received and each lateral fin (12) has a length equal to or less than the length of each groove of the disc (202), in which the cushion (10) is arranged to be rotated by the user, thereby rotating each rotating disc (200) around its axis of rotation (208), which prevents the cushion (10) from detaching from the support device (1).

2. Support device (1) according to claim 1, each wall (20) comprising a means for guiding (206) in rotation of the rotating disk (200). LEATHE-1-PCT 3. Support device (1) according to claim 2, the guiding means (206) comprising at least one through opening in the form of a circular arc.

4. Support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the rotating disc (200) comprising a stop means (206).

5. Support device (1) according to claim 4 when it depends on one of claims 2 or 3, the stop means (206) being a lug that can pivot in the guide means (206).

6. Support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the angle of rotation of the cushion (10) being within the range 70°-75° with respect to the direction (z) perpendicular to the base (30).

7. Support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the cushion (10) comprises two parts (101, 102) arranged to be in contact with the supported part, and a fastening element (103) arranged to fasten the two parts (101, 102) together in a flexible or elastic manner, in order to hold the part once mounted on the cushion (10) independently of the position of the cushion (10).

8. Support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a cover (50) arranged to protect the watch, jewelry or gemstone.

9. Support device (1) according to claim 8, the cover (50) being arranged to be fixed to the base (30) of the support device.

10. Case comprising the support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9. LEATHE-1-PCT 11. Case according to claim 10, being rotatable.

12. Case comprising the support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9. LEATHE-1-PCT