Device for connecting a strap to a part, in particular a watch case
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure EP2026052853_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] A device for attaching a bracelet to a component, such as a watch case.
[0002] The present invention relates to a device for attaching a bracelet to a part, particularly a watch case, to which the bracelet is to be attached. This device comprises two complementary attachment elements intended to be fixed to the connecting ends of the bracelet and the part. The invention also relates to a wristwatch comprising such a device. The invention further relates to a watch case comprising one of the two complementary attachment elements. Finally, the invention relates to a bracelet comprising one of the two complementary attachment elements.
[0003] The most common way to attach a watch strap between the lugs of a watch case is with a spring bar. This spring bar has a retaining pin at each end, one of which is attached to a piston that slides within the other tubular section of the bar. A helical spring inside the tubular section is used to extend the pin from its housing. Attaching and removing a strap using this method requires tools to push and hold the piston in place within the tubular section. This operation demands a certain level of skill. Furthermore, once the spring bar is inserted between the lugs, the hole in the lugs must be located to allow the spring to insert the pin. Therefore, this is not a task for everyone.Furthermore, the attachment of a bracelet to a watch case frequently includes components that can form rough edges which can snag or damage clothing.
[0004] A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 / for example a shirt sleeve at the wrist which is in contact with the watch.
[0005] W02013076220A1 discloses a connecting device comprising two complementary attachment members fixed, respectively, to the connecting ends of a strap, particularly a watch strap, and to a component, particularly a watch, to which it is attached. The attachment members are oriented transversely to the longitudinal direction of the strap. One of the attachment members is movable laterally between two limit positions: a first position in which it is engaged with the other attachment member, and a second position in which it is disengaged from this other attachment member. Elastic return means tend to maintain the laterally movable attachment member between the two limit positions in the first position.
[0006] EP0714051A1 discloses a watch case with lugs featuring notches. The notches have an opening on the top of the lug, extend towards the strap, and terminate in a recess. The spring bar attached to the strap is inserted into the notch through the opening and is pulled into place in the recess. A cover pivoting around a pivot has lateral protrusions that fit into the openings when the pivoting cover is closed. The lateral protrusions lock the spring bar in the recesses. The pivot axis is located in or above the plane of the recess, so that pressure exerted by the spring bar towards the case does not tend to open the cover. The cover is held in the closed position by means of a spring-loaded lug that fits into a lateral cavity in the
[0007] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 the cover. A screw holds the spring and the lug in a cylindrical hole made in the horn.
[0008] CN217695471U discloses a device for attaching a watch strap and a device such as a watch case. The main body of the device has a slot designed to receive a watch strap hook. The hook is attached to a rotating component mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation on the watch strap, with a return spring arranged in a pre-compressed state between the rotating component and the watch strap. The return spring and the hook are located on either side of the axis of rotation. The rotating component is configured to insert the hook into the slot under the elastic force of the return spring, and to rotate relative to the main body of the device under the action of an external force to overcome the elastic force of the return spring until the hook is withdrawn from the slot.In this fastening device, the hook is configured to engage in the slot in a direction corresponding to a longitudinal movement of the hook towards the slot. This longitudinal movement also corresponds to the direction in which a tensile force is exerted between the watch strap and the device when the watch strap is attached. If the device, such as a watch, is pulled, the tensile force is exerted in the same direction as the engagement direction. This can contribute to the unreliability of the mechanism due to accidental opening, or even the loss of the device.
[0009] The aim of the present invention is to remedy, at least in part, the drawbacks of these fastening methods and to make the operation of replacing a bracelet within reach of
[0010] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026each. Furthermore, the fastening device must be simple to manufacture for economic reasons, while remaining reliable to avoid unplanned opening and possible loss of the bracelet and the part, especially if the bracelet and / or the part have a high value.
[0011] To this end, the present invention aims to provide a device for connecting a bracelet to a part, in particular a watch case, to which this bracelet is to be attached, this device comprising two complementary attachment members intended to be fixed to the connecting ends of the bracelet and the part, as defined by claim 1.
[0012] The invention also relates to a wristwatch comprising such a device, to a watch case comprising one of the two complementary attachment elements and to a bracelet comprising one of the two complementary attachment elements.
[0013] Preferred realizations are defined in dependent claims.
[0014] A device for connecting a bracelet to a part to which the bracelet is to be attached is disclosed, the device comprising two complementary hooking members intended to be integral with the connecting ends of the bracelet and the part, respectively, and to be hooked to each other in the state of the bracelet attached to the part.
[0015] The first component of the two attachment components comprises a base body intended to be integral with one of the connecting ends selected from the group formed by a connecting end of the bracelet and a connecting end of the part, and an attachment element intended to cooperate with a second
[0016] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 The two attachment elements. If the first element is fixed to the connecting end of the part, the second element is therefore fixed to the connecting end of the bracelet. Alternatively, if the first element is fixed to the connecting end of the bracelet, the second element is therefore fixed to the connecting end of the part.
[0017] The term solid relating to the base body means that the base body can be an element forming a separate piece which is fixed to the connecting end of the bracelet or piece, or forming a single piece, i.e. a monobloc, with all or part of the bracelet or piece, depending on whether the base body is solid to the bracelet or piece respectively.
[0018] In this context, a piece refers to a piece of jewelry, a jewel, or more generally, an adornment or fashion accessory intended to be worn preferably on the wrist. Preferably, the piece refers to a watch case, and the bracelet refers to a watch strap.
[0019] In one embodiment, the part comprises two connecting ends, preferably arranged diametrically opposite with respect to a central region of the part, and the bracelet comprises two connecting ends, a connecting device being provided for the attachment each time of a connecting end of the bracelet with a connecting end of the part.
[0020] The first component further includes a pivoting rod fixed to the base body and oriented perpendicularly to a principal direction corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. The pivoting rod passes through the attachment element and allows the attachment element to pivot between a locked position and a free position.
[0021] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 Bracelet release. The pivoting rod thus forms a pivot axis of the attachment element. In the bracelet's attached state to the workpiece, the main direction passes through the connecting end of the workpiece, the connecting device, and the connecting end of the bracelet.
[0022] In general, directions given as parallel or perpendicular are understood as being defined with usual production and / or fitting tolerances and which allow components extending along these directions to fulfill their function within the scope of the invention.
[0023] In an embodiment where the part includes two connecting ends arranged diametrically opposite with respect to the central region of the part, the main direction also includes the two connecting ends of the part and the central region of the part.
[0024] Furthermore, the longitudinal direction of the bracelet can be defined by a portion of the bracelet near the connecting end, for example, when the bracelet is considered attached to the part and thus forms a closed loop on the part. In this case, the bracelet extends in a plane formed by the loop, said plane including the longitudinal direction.
[0025] The attachment element comprises two end regions: a first end region oriented towards the second component and a second end region oriented in the opposite direction to the second component. The first end region is arranged on one side of the pivot rod and the second end region is arranged on the other side. The attachment element further comprises an inner face oriented towards the base body and a free outer face oriented in a
[0026] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 opposite direction to the base body. The outer face is said to be free insofar as it constitutes an external surface of the linking device, this external surface being free to access in order to exert a release force on it, for example with a finger when the device needs to be activated.
[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the fastening element is a body with an essentially planar shape to occupy as little space as possible within the fastening device, preferably in the form of a plate, extending in a plane parallel to the pivot rod. It is possible that the free outer face may have a structure to prevent slippage when a force is exerted on the fastening element.
[0028] The first component also includes an elastic return element configured to exert a preload force by pivoting one of its two end regions in a direction opposite to the base body towards the locking position. The elastic return element can be a spring, preferably a helical spring or a leaf spring. The elastic return element can be housed in a hole provided in the base body to hold it in position, and protrude from it to exert the preload force.
[0029] The attachment element is pivotable in the unlocking position by exerting a unlocking force acting against the preload force.
[0030] The other of the two end regions includes a lug projecting from the inner face of the attachment element. The attachment element forms a housing delimited by the inner face, the lug, and the base body, and is intended to receive a retaining element for the second component. This
[0031] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 arrangement allows for the formation of a compact housing insofar as the inner face and the lug simultaneously form the walls of the housing. The housing can be shaped to complement the retaining element to prevent any movement of the retaining rod within the housing.
[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the other of the two end regions is limited to a boundary region of the attachment element extending parallel to the pivot rod, and the pivot rod is adjoining the boundary region. This arrangement reduces the size of the attachment element to help form a compact connecting device.
[0033] Furthermore, the housing includes an opening between the lug and the base body for the insertion of the retaining element. The gap between the lug and the base body of this opening varies from a maximum gap in the unlocked position, allowing the retaining element to move in or out, to a minimum gap in the locked position, preventing the retaining element from exiting. This gap is measured in the principal direction, i.e., in a longitudinal section of the first component. Therefore, the housing has an opening of variable size, viewed in the principal direction, depending on the pivot position of the retaining element. In the locked position, with the retaining element free from the workpiece, the entry of the retaining element into the housing is also blocked in the absence of a release force exerted against the preload force.
[0034] The release force can be applied to the free outer face of the connecting device against the prestressing force on the corresponding end region, by
[0035] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 example with a finger when the device needs to be activated. This release force can also be applied to the lug configured to act as a lever element relative to the pivot axis, by pressing the retaining element against the lug in a direction of insertion into the housing. Preferably, angles present on the contact faces of the retaining element with the lug during insertion into the housing and on the contact faces of the lug allow the application of the release force to unlock the fastener element.
[0036] In summary, the release force can be applied to the outer face of the fastener element or by pressing the retaining element in the opening against the lug which acts against the preload force by lever effect around the pivot rod.
[0037] The second attachment element of the two attachment elements comprises the retaining element, and a connecting element of the retaining element intended to be integral with the other of the connecting ends chosen from the group formed by the connecting end of the bracelet and the connecting end of the part. The connecting element may be a bridge-shaped part intended to be fixed at its first end to the other of the connecting ends and at its second end to the retaining element.
[0038] The term "solid" referring to the connecting element means that the connecting element can be an element forming a separate piece that is fixed to the connecting end of the bracelet or piece, or forming a single piece, i.e. a monobloc, with all or part of the bracelet or piece, depending on whether the connecting element is solid to the bracelet or piece respectively.
[0039] A241 97 EP / 04.02.2026 The retaining element and the lug form interlocking elements to allow the first component to be attached to the second component when, in the unlocked position reached by applying the unlocking force, the retaining element is inserted into the housing, and in the locked position in the absence of the unlocking force, the retaining element is locked in the housing by the lug. The linking device thus allows the bracelet to move from its free state to its attached state.
[0040] Conversely, to allow the first component to detach from the second component from the locking position in which the retaining element is secured in the housing by the lug, the release force is applied to the outer face of the attachment element against the preload force to pivot the attachment element into the release position. The retaining element is then removed from the housing. The linkage thus allows the bracelet to transition from its state attached to the part to its state free from the part.
[0041] This device has the advantage of having a limited number of components, which facilitates its production. Furthermore, the device has only one moving part, the attachment element, which is also freely accessible for activation, making the device very simple for the user.
[0042] According to the invention, the housing and the retaining element are configured for the retaining element to engage in the housing in a direction of engagement transverse to the direction of a tensile force exerted between the two complementary latching members in the state of the bracelet attached to the workpiece. Generally, the tensile force is exerted in the principal direction corresponding to the
[0043] A241 97 EP / 04.02.2026 Longitudinal direction of the bracelet. The snap-in direction corresponds to the direction of insertion of the retaining element into the housing. Preferably, the snap-in direction is perpendicular to the tensile force.
[0044] In other words, the lug allows the retaining element to be engaged in the housing along the engagement direction, which extends in a transverse plane, preferably perpendicular, to the principal direction, and prevents the retaining element from exiting the housing in the engagement direction. The housing and its opening are configured for the insertion of the retaining element along the engagement direction.
[0045] In this configuration, the snap-in direction is not the same as the direction of the tensile force exerted when tension is applied to both parts in the state of the wrist strap attached to the workpiece, for example, when wearing the wrist strap and workpiece. The two directions form an angle with each other, preferably an angle of 90°. The tensile force therefore acts only partially, or not at all, in the direction in which the retaining element enters or exits the housing, unlike the configuration disclosed in CN217695471U where the snap-in direction and the tensile force are aligned with each other, or even parallel. In the present invention, the traction force is therefore exerted against the mechanical resistance of the lug only and does not act in the direction of separation of the two parts since it does not act in the direction of ratcheting.This configuration therefore contributes to a better reliability of the mechanism by reducing the risk of accidental opening.
[0046] A241 97 EP / 04.02.2026 Preferably, the lug projects from the inner face of the fastener in a plane transverse to the tensile force, more preferably perpendicular to the tensile force. In this configuration, the lug therefore extends parallel to the ratcheting direction. Preferably, the insertion of the retaining element into the housing is carried out in the direction of insertion into the housing perpendicular to the pivot pin, towards the inner face of the fastener.
[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the elastic return element is configured to exert a pivoting prestressing force on the second end region, and the first end region includes the lug projecting from the inner face of the attachment element. This arrangement facilitates the attachment of the two components, as the lug is visibly positioned at the front of the attachment element.
[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the housing extends oblongally in a direction parallel to the pivot pin and is designed to receive a retaining element in the form of a retaining pin. The opening extends oblongly in a direction parallel to the pivot pin for the insertion of the retaining pin into the housing. The retaining pin is oriented perpendicular to the principal direction and is arranged to extend parallel to the pivot pin when the bracelet is attached to the part. The use of a retaining pin is an embodiment with a simple design while allowing reliable attachment of the two components through cooperation along the entire length of the retaining pin. Preferably, the lug projects from the inner face of the attachment element in a plane parallel to the pivot pin and perpendicular to the
[0049] A241 97 EP / 04.02.2026 main direction. This plane is therefore perpendicular to the tensile force. In this configuration, the lug therefore extends parallel to the ratcheting direction.
[0050] The retaining rod may have a cylindrical cross-section. The cross-section may also be non-cylindrical to limit the movement of the retaining rod within the housing, for example, rectangular. Preferably, the cross-section of the housing is also a complementary non-cylindrical shape to eliminate movement of the retaining rod within the housing, more preferably rectangular. Preferably, both the retaining rod and the housing have a rectangular cross-section, the long side of which extends in the direction of insertion into the housing. The cross-section of the retaining rod may have a chamfer on the side of the rod that first contacts the edges of the housing opening to facilitate insertion and prevent premature wear of the retaining rod at points of friction during insertion into the opening.Furthermore, the cross-section of the retaining rod may have a wider base on the side opposite the side of the retaining rod that first comes into contact with the edges of the opening to ensure better snapping into the lug.
[0051] It is noted that both the pivot rod and the retaining rod can be made in two or more parts, arranged on their respective axes.
[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the lug and the retaining element comprise complementary elements cooperating to block the movement of the retaining element in the
[0053] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 Locking position. Preferably, the lug includes a protrusion projecting inwards into the housing at the opening, and the retaining element has a shape complementary to the protrusion to cooperate with it and block the movement of the retaining element in the direction of exit from the housing. In this way, the lug forms a hook that retains the retaining rod. The presence of the protrusion provides a safety feature for retaining the retaining rod in the locked position.
[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the lug further extends laterally in the direction parallel to the pivot rod on the inner face of the fastening element, preferably at the edge of the fastening element.
[0055] Preferably, the attachment element is formed symmetrically with respect to the main direction to distribute evenly the traction exerted on the organs in the state of the bracelet attached to the part.
[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the attachment element extends in the main direction, facing the second component, beyond the pivoting stem, forming a guide projection. Furthermore, the second component includes a cavity with a shape complementary to the guide projection, the cavity being designed to receive the guide projection when the bracelet is attached to the part. This embodiment allows the first and second components to be positioned relative to each other in the main direction to simplify their attachment. Moreover, the guide projection provides an overlap of the space between the first and second components at the connection point to prevent snagging.
[0057] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026other object and / or part of a piece of clothing between these when wearing the whole piece and bracelet mounted.
[0058] In an even more preferred embodiment, the attachment element comprises a central portion including the lug, and, viewed in the direction of the pivot stem, a lateral portion arranged adjoiningly and integrally to the central portion on either side of it, the lateral portion forming the guiding projection. The lateral portion may be in the form of horns oriented towards the bracelet and arranged on either side of the central portion. Furthermore, the lateral portion partially reduces lateral movement of the bracelet, viewed in the direction of the pivot stem, relative to the piece. In effect, the lateral projection is limited in its movement by the complementaryly shaped recess of the second component.
[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the lug further extends laterally in the direction parallel to the pivot rod on the inner face of the central part, preferably at the edge of the central part.
[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the base body includes a recess formed to at least partially house the fastening element. Preferably, the recess is sized to receive the fastening element such that a free outer face of the base body and the free outer face of the fastening element are substantially flush. When the outer faces of the base body and the fastening element are substantially flush, the fastening element forms at most a small protrusion that is unlikely to snag on another object, for example, clothing, when the bracelet and the piece are attached. The outer faces of the base body and the fastening element may
[0061] A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 be flush so as not to form any roughness when passing from one surface to another. In this case, the fastening element can be housed completely in the recess.
[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the recess includes a stop configured to limit the pivoting of the attachment element to a pivoting corresponding to the minimum spacing, i.e., when the attachment element is pivoted in the direction of the locking position. The stop prevents the attachment element from being pushed too far in the direction of the locking position by the preload force. This prevents the second end region of the attachment element from being excessively pivoted in the opposite direction to the base body, i.e., from deviating excessively from the base body, and thus from forming an asperity that would inconvenience the wearer of the bracelet and the part.
[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the recess is delimited in the direction of the pivot rod by a side wall intercepting the pivot rod, preferably intercepting it perpendicularly to allow for a simpler construction. Preferably, the stop projects from the side wall in a direction parallel to the pivot rod to ensure a simple and compact construction.
[0064] In a preferred embodiment, another side wall is provided facing the first side wall, viewed in the direction of the pivot rod. The second wall can be arranged parallel to the first wall. Preferably, the pivot rod extends between the first wall and the second wall and is mounted between them to secure the fastener. Advantageously, the recess is dimensioned to at least partially receive the connecting element and, if
[0065] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 presents the other connecting element, the side wall and the other side wall being arranged at a distance from each other such that, in the state of the bracelet attached to the part, they adjoin the connecting element and, if present, the other connecting element, to limit the lateral movement of the connecting element and, if present, the other connecting element, in the direction parallel to the direction of the pivoting stem. In this arrangement, the connecting element and, if present, the other connecting element, are housed in the recess by a form engagement limiting their lateral movement within the recess, thus ensuring a stable and reliable attachment of the bracelet.
[0066] The first and second components can be made of precious metals, non-precious metals, plastic, or composite materials. Generally, the material of the first component is not necessarily the same as that of the second. It is also possible for the bracelet and the coin to be made of different materials than those used for the first and second components.
[0067] In an embodiment where the first component is fixed to the watch case and the second component is fixed to the strap, the side wall is preferably arranged perpendicular to the plane of the watch case. Preferably, the other side wall is also arranged perpendicular to the plane of the watch case. This embodiment is advantageous for its simplicity of construction and allows for easy attachment of the two components.
[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the first organ and the second organ comprise complementaryly shaped guiding parts cooperating with each other to guide the first organ relative to the second organ during
[0069] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 The attachment of these parts is intended to be fixed to one another in the attached state of the bracelet with the piece, the guide parts being arranged such that, during attachment, they cooperate by complementary shape when the retaining element is positioned in the direction of insertion into the housing. In particular, the guide parts cooperate with each other by sliding adjustment in the direction of insertion into the opening of the housing.
[0070] In another embodiment, the basic body includes a first guiding part and the second component includes a second guiding part intended to be integral with the other end of the connection, the second guiding part being of complementary shape to the first guiding part.
[0071] In a more preferred embodiment, the base body includes the first guide part and the retaining element includes the second guide part, which is complementary in shape to the first guide part.
[0072] In a more preferred embodiment in which the retaining element is formed by the retaining rod, the first guiding portion is a notch formed in the base body, and the second guiding portion is in the form of a free end of the retaining rod extending in the direction of the retaining rod. In an even more preferred embodiment, the second guiding portion is in the form of a free end at each end of the retaining rod, and the first guiding portion is a notch formed in the base body with a shape corresponding to each of the free ends. Preferably, the notch extends into two notch portions on either side of the housing, extending parallel to the pivoting rod. In the attached state of the
[0073] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 Bracelet with individual parts, the first guiding part, for example the notch, and the second guiding part, for example the free end, being fixed to each other, have the advantage of supporting part of the tensile force exerted by the second part on the first part. The tension in the main direction exerted on the lug is thus reduced, which ensures greater longevity of the device.
[0074] Preferably, the first organ and the second organ are formed symmetrically with respect to a plane comprising the principal direction and extending perpendicularly to the pivot rod.
[0075] In an embodiment where the elastic return element is configured to exert a pivoting preload force on the second end region, and the first end region comprises the lug projecting from the inner face of the attachment element, the retaining element is held at a distance from the other connecting end by the connecting element to form a passage for the lug between the retaining element and the other connecting end. This arrangement improves the strength of the connection device since the lug retains the retaining element also in the principal direction in the event of tension exerted on the strap.
[0076] In this embodiment, the retaining element and the lug form interlocking elements to allow the first component to engage with the second component when, in the unlocked position reached by applying the unlocking force, the retaining element is inserted into the housing and the lug is inserted into the passage, and in the position
[0077] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 blocking in the absence of the release force, the retaining element is blocked in the housing by the lug.
[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the second component is characterized by two connecting elements of the retaining element arranged at a distance from each other, viewed in the direction of the pivot rod, with a passage formed between the two connecting elements. This arrangement further improves the attachment of the retaining element, providing reliable engagement of the two components. Preferably, the two connecting elements are arranged symmetrically with respect to the principal direction to ensure a homogeneous distribution of tensile forces on the bracelet in its attached state. In an embodiment where the retaining element is a retaining rod, the two connecting elements of the retaining element are arranged at a distance from each other, viewed in the direction of the retaining rod.More preferably when the retaining element is formed by the retaining rod, the first guiding part is a notch formed in the base body, and the second guiding part is in the form of a free end of the retaining rod extending in the direction of the retaining rod in the opposite direction to the passage.
[0079] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a wristwatch, such that one of the two attachment members is integral with a part forming a watch case and the other of the two attachment members is integral with a strap.
[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the first component is integral with the watch case and the second component is integral with the strap. The manufacturing costs of the first component are, given its design, higher than those of the second component, which is of a simpler design. This embodiment of
[0081] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 The preferred design thus allows for the distribution of costs between the watch case and the strap, such that the more expensive component only needs to be purchased once with the watch, and the less expensive component avoids increasing the manufacturing cost of the strap. The strap can therefore be produced at a lower cost in various interchangeable forms for the same watch case.
[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the watch case comprises a case middle with two opposing lateral sides arranged to receive the strap and forming connecting ends of the watch case. The case middle includes, on each of the two opposing lateral sides, a base body, the base body and the case middle preferably forming a single piece. Preferably, the pivot stem is arranged parallel to the plane of the watch case and perpendicular to the principal direction.
[0083] The case middle forms the middle part of the watch case which houses a movement and is located between a watch case back which defines the plane of the watch case and a bezel.
[0084] In a more preferred embodiment, the base body includes a contact surface facing the connecting end of the bracelet, and the connecting end of the bracelet includes another contact surface facing the contact surface. The contact surface and the other contact surface have a complementary shape, preferably planar. Furthermore, the first and second components are dimensioned so that the contact surface and the other contact surface are pressed against each other in the bracelet's attached state. In particular, when the retaining element is in the housing in the attached state of the
[0085] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 For a single-piece bracelet, the distance measured in the principal direction between the retaining element and the contact surface of the first component can be chosen to be equal to the distance between the retaining element and the other surface of the second component, so that the two surfaces are contiguous. This embodiment reduces bracelet movement relative to the watch case, which can generate noises such as rattling that bother the wearer. Furthermore, this arrangement ensures a more secure fit for the retaining element. Indeed, excessive play in the bracelet relative to the case can result in the retaining element detaching from the lug.
[0086] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a watch case comprising one of two complementary attachment elements of the linking device according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above. This embodiment makes it possible to distribute production costs such that the first, more expensive element only needs to be purchased once with the watch.
[0087] In another aspect, the invention relates to a bracelet comprising one of two complementary attachment elements of the connecting device according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above, preferably a watch strap. This embodiment makes it possible to limit the manufacturing cost of the bracelet, which can be produced at a lower cost in various interchangeable forms for the same watch case.
[0088] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 Description of figures
[0089] The attached figures illustrate, schematically and by way of example, one embodiment of the obj linking device and of the invention.
[0090] Figure 1 represents in perspective a linking device obj and of the invention in the form of a wristwatch with a first organ attached to the part in the form of a watch case and a second organ attached to a bracelet in a state of the bracelet free from the watch case;
[0091] Figure 2 represents the wristwatch from Figure 1 in a state of the strap attached to the watch case;
[0092] Figures 3A-1, 3A-2 and 3A-3 represent a longitudinal section through the connecting device at the level of section A shown in Figure 2, the connecting device being in successive states during the hooking;
[0093] Figures 3B-1, 3B-2 and 3B-3 represent a longitudinal section through the connecting device at the level of section B shown in Figure 2, the connecting device being in successive states during the hooking;
[0094] Figures 3C-1 and 3C-3 represent a longitudinal section through the connecting device at the level of section C shown in Figure 2, the connecting device being in successive states during the hooking;
[0095] Figures 4A-1, 4B-1 and 4C-1 represent a longitudinal section through the connecting device at the level of
[0096] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 section A, B and C respectively represented on figure 2 during the detachment of the linking device;
[0097] Figure 5 represents a perspective view of part of the first organ of Figure 1;
[0098] Figures 6D-1 and 6D-2 represent a longitudinal section through the connecting device at the level of section D shown in Figure 2, the connecting device being in two successive states during the hooking;
[0099] Figure 7 shows the inner face of the wristwatch case in Figure 1 without the strap; and
[0100] Figure 8 represents the wristwatch of figure 1 in an intermediate state of attachment of the strap to the watch case seen from the inner face.
[0101] A connecting device 10 of a bracelet in the form of a watch strap 20 to a component in the form of a watch case 22 is shown in Figure 1 in a free state of the bracelet relative to the watch case to which it is to be attached. Figures 7 and 8 show the same connecting device from the inner face, in this case of the wristwatch, the side that is in contact with the wearer.
[0102] The connecting device 10 comprises two complementary attachment members: a first member 30 intended to be attached to a connecting end 32 of the watch case, and a second member 36 intended to be attached to the connecting end 38 of the strap. The first and second members are intended to be attached to each other when the strap is attached to the watch case as shown in Figure 2.
[0103] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 The first organ 30 comprises a base body 40 which is integral with the connecting end of the watch case 22 and an attachment element 44 intended to cooperate with the second organ 36. In figures 1 and 2, the attachment element 44 is shown in grey for clarity.
[0104] The watch case 22 comprises a case middle 45, two opposing lateral sides of which are arranged to receive the strap and form two connecting ends of the watch case. The watch case 22 therefore includes, in addition to the connecting end 32 of the watch case, another connecting end 32a, i.e., two connecting ends of the watch case arranged diametrically opposite each other with respect to a central region 46 of the part. The base body 40 forms a single piece, i.e., a monobloc, with the watch case 22, in particular the case middle 45. However, it can also be configured as a separate component that is attached to the connecting end of the watch case.
[0105] The bracelet 20 includes, in addition to the connecting end 38 of the bracelet, another connecting end 38a, i.e., two connecting ends of the bracelet. A connecting device is therefore provided for attaching each connecting end of the bracelet to a connecting end of the part, although only one device is visible in Figure 1.
[0106] The first organ 30 further includes a pivoting rod 50, visible for example in Figure 3A-1 and following, fixed to the base body 40 and oriented perpendicularly to a principal direction P corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and parallel to the plane of the watch case B.
[0107] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 The pivoting rod passes through the attachment element 44 and allows the attachment element to pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position of the bracelet. The pivoting rod, not visible in Figure 1, is shown with a dashed line to facilitate interpretation, particularly of the directions given with reference to it. In the state when the bracelet is attached to the part, here the watch case, the principal direction P passes through the connecting end of the part 38, the connecting device 10, and the connecting end of the bracelet 32. In the embodiment of Figure 1, the watch case comprises two connecting ends 32 and 32a arranged diametrically opposite each other with respect to the central region 46 of the part, and the principal direction therefore also passes through the two connecting ends of the part and the central region of the part.
[0108] Typically, the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, considered in its state attached to the piece as is the case in Figure 2 and thus forming a closed loop on the piece, extends in a plane formed by the loop.
[0109] The attachment element 44 has a first end region 54 oriented towards the second member 36, and a second end region 56 oriented in the opposite direction to the second member 36. The first end region 54 is arranged on one side of the pivot rod 50, and the second end region is arranged on the other side. As illustrated in Figure 3A-1, the attachment element 44 also has an inner face 58 oriented towards the base body 40 and a free outer face 60 oriented in the opposite direction to the base body 40. The outer face 60 is said to be free insofar as it constitutes an external surface of the connecting device.
[0110] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 particular of the attachment element, this external surface being free to access in order to exert a release force for example with a finger when the device is to be activated.
[0111] The first component 30 also includes an elastic return element configured to exert a preload force F, pivoting the second end region 56 in a direction opposite to the base body towards the locking position. The elastic return element is a helical spring 64, visible for example in Figure 3A-1 or Figure 3B-1. The spring 64 is housed in a hole 66 formed in the base body to hold it in position, and protrudes from it in its unconstrained state to be able to exert the preload force F.
[0112] The attachment element is pivotable in the unlocking position illustrated in figures 4A-1, 4A-2 and 4A-3 by exerting a unlocking force R on the outer face 60 of the attachment element 44 against the prestressing force F.
[0113] The first end region 54 comprises a lug 70 projecting from the inner face 58 of the attachment element 44, the attachment element forming a housing 72 delimited by the inner face 58, the lug 70, and the base body 40. The housing is complementary in shape to a retaining element 76 of the second component it is intended to receive. This arrangement allows for the formation of a compact housing insofar as the inner face of the attachment element and the lug simultaneously form the walls of the housing.
[0114] The housing 72 extends oblongally in a direction parallel to the pivot rod 50 to receive the retaining element 76, which is in the form of a retaining rod. The retaining rod is oriented perpendicular to the principal direction P and is arranged to extend
[0115] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 parallel to the pivot rod 50 in the state of the bracelet attached to the part. The cross-section of the retaining rod is essentially rectangular and has a chamfer on the side of the retaining rod that first comes into contact with the edges of the housing opening.
[0116] Furthermore, the housing includes an oblong opening 80 extending parallel to the pivot rod between the lug 70 and the base body 40 for the insertion of the retaining element 76 into the housing. The opening 80 has a variable gap E between the lug and the base body, ranging from a maximum gap in the unlocked position to allow the retaining element to move in or out, to a minimum gap in the locked position to prevent the retaining element from moving out or, a fortiori, from entering. The gap E is measured in the principal direction, i.e., in the direction perpendicular to the pivot rod.
[0117] The lug 70 and the retaining element 76 include complementary elements that cooperate to block the movement of the retaining element in the blocked position. As illustrated, for example, in Figure 3A-3 or Figure 7, the lug includes a protrusion 77 projecting inwards into the housing 72 at the opening 80. The retaining element 76 has a shape complementary to the protrusion 77 to cooperate with the protrusion and block the movement of the retaining element in the direction of exit from the housing.
[0118] The second attachment element 36 comprises the retaining element 76, and a connecting element 84 and another connecting element 84a of the retaining element, i.e., two connecting elements intended to be integral with the connecting end
[0119] A24197EP / 04.02.202638 of the bracelet. The two connecting elements are arranged symmetrically with respect to the principal direction P to ensure a homogeneous distribution of tensile forces on the bracelet in its attached state. The retaining element 76 is held at a distance from the connecting end 38 by the two connecting elements 84 and 84a to form a passage 82 for the lug 70 between the two connecting elements and between the retaining element and the connecting end 38 of the bracelet. The term "integral" referring to the connecting element means, in the embodiment of Figure 1, that the connecting element is a separate part that is fixed to the connecting end 38 of the bracelet.
[0120] The retaining element 76 and the lug 70 form snap-on elements to allow the first member 30 to be hooked to the second member 36 as illustrated in figures 3A-1 to 3C-3.
[0121] The state of the free bracelet relative to the watch case is shown in Figures 3A-1, 3B-1, and 3C-1, which also correspond to the state shown in Figure 8. In the absence of the release force R exerted on the outer face of the attachment element or on the lug against the preload force F, the attachment element 44 is in the locked position. The attachment element is pivoted under the effect of the preload force F such that the second end region 56 is pivoted in a direction opposite to the base body 40. The first organ 30 is separated from the second organ 36 and the opening 80 has a gap E between the lug 70 and the base body 40 corresponding to the minimum gap in which the entry or exit of the retaining element 76 is blocked.
[0122] A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 When the release force R is exerted on the fastening element against the preload force F, the fastening element 44 is pivoted into the release position as illustrated in Figures 3A-2 and 3B-2. As a result of this pivoting, the gap E of the opening 80 increases such that the retaining element 76 can be inserted into the housing 72 and the lug 70 is inserted into the passage 82.
[0123] The introduction of the retaining element into the housing is carried out in an introduction direction into the housing T perpendicular to the pivot rod 50.
[0124] When the retaining element is fully inserted into the housing and the lug is fully inserted into the passage, the release force R is removed and the fastening element 44 pivots into the locked position under the effect of the preload force F. In the locked position, the retaining element 76 is locked in the housing 72 as illustrated in Figures 3A-1, 3B-3 and 3C-3. The connecting device thus allows the strap to move from its free state on the part to its attached state on the part.
[0125] Conversely, to allow the first component 30 to be detached from the second component 36 from the locking position illustrated in Figures 3A-1, 3B-3, and 3C-3, in which the retaining element is locked in the housing, the release force R is exerted on the outer face of the attachment element 44 against the preload force F to pivot the attachment element into the release position. Following this pivoting, the gap E of the opening 80 increases such that the retaining element 76 can be extended into the housing 72, and the lug 70 is removed from the passage 82. The connecting device thus allows the strap to move from its state attached to the part to its state free from the part.
[0126] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 This device has the advantage of having a limited number of components, which facilitates its production. Furthermore, the device has only one moving part, the attachment element 44, which is also freely accessible for activation, making the device very easy for the wearer to use.
[0127] The attachment element 44 is a body of essentially planar, plate-like shape, extending essentially in a plane parallel to the pivot rod 50, as can be seen in Figure 1. The attachment element comprises a central part 44a including the lug 70. Furthermore, the attachment element 44 extends in the principal direction P in the direction oriented towards the second member beyond the pivot rod 50, forming a guide projection 86. The guide projection takes the form of a lateral part 44b, arranged adjunct to and integral with the central part on either side of the central part, viewed in the direction of the pivot rod 50. The lateral part 44b has the form of two horns oriented towards the bracelet and arranged on either side of the central part 44a. The attachment element is formed from a single piece, therefore a monobloc.
[0128] The second component 36 includes a cavity 90 with a shape complementary to the guide projection 86, the cavity being designed to receive the guide projection in the state of the bracelet attached to the part. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the cavity has two arms whose shape is complementary to the two lugs. This embodiment allows the first and second components to be positioned relative to each other in the principal direction to simplify their attachment.
[0129] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 Referring now to Figures 5, 6D-1 and 6D-2, the base body 40 includes a recess 91 formed to house the attachment element 44 such that a free outer face 92 of the base body and the free outer face 60 of the attachment element are substantially flush. In this way, the attachment element has at most a roughness that is unlikely to snag on another object, for example, clothing.
[0130] The recess 91 includes a stop 96 configured to limit the pivoting of the attachment element to a pivoting corresponding to the minimum spacing when the attachment element bears against the stop 96 during pivoting in the direction of the locking position. This state is shown in Figure 6D-2. The stop 96 prevents the attachment element from being pushed too far in the direction of the locking position by the preload force F. The recess 91 is delimited in the direction of the pivot rod 50 by a side wall 95 comprising the stop 96 and another side wall 95a facing the side wall, viewed in the direction of the pivot rod, and arranged parallel to the side wall. The pivot rod 50 is symbolically represented by a dotted line in Figure 5. The side wall and the other side wall are arranged perpendicular to the plane of the watch case B shown in Figure 1.
[0131] The first member 30 and the second member 36 comprise complementaryly shaped guide parts cooperating with each other to facilitate engagement. The guide parts are arranged such that, during engagement, they come into contact when the lug 70 is positioned in the direction of insertion into the passage 82 and the element of
[0132] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 The retaining element 76 is positioned in the insertion direction T in the housing 72. In the embodiment of Figure 1 and as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the base body 40 comprises a first guide portion in the form of a notch 98 formed in the base body 40 and extending on either side of the housing in its continuation as two notch portions 98a, 98b. Furthermore, the retaining element 76, formed here by the retaining rod, comprises a second guide portion complementary in shape to the first guide portion and in the form of a free end 100a and 100b extending, in the direction of the retaining rod, on either side of the retaining rod, in the direction opposite to the passage 82.
[0133] In this embodiment, the manufacturing costs of the first component are, due to its design, higher than those of the second component, which is of a simpler design. This preferred embodiment therefore allows the costs to be distributed between the watch case and the strap, such that the more expensive first component only needs to be purchased once with the watch, and the less expensive second component avoids increasing the manufacturing cost of the strap. The strap can thus be produced at a lower cost in various interchangeable forms sold separately for the same watch case.
[0134] The base body 40 includes a contact surface 104 facing the connecting end of the bracelet 38, and the connecting end of the bracelet 38 includes another contact surface 106 facing the contact surface 104. As illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the contact surface 104 and the other contact surface 106 have a complementary planar shape and are configured to be contiguous, as seen in a
[0135] A24197EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 longitudinal section, in the state of the bracelet attached to the part to reduce the relative movements of the bracelet with respect to the watch case.
[0136] To do this, when the retaining element is in the housing in the attached state of the bracelet to the part, the distance measured in the principal direction between the retaining element and the contact surface of the first member 104 can be chosen to be equal to the distance between the retaining element 76 and the other surface of the second member 106. When the retaining element is in the housing in the attached state of the bracelet to the part, the two surfaces are contiguous.
[0137] List of references
[0138] connection device 10
[0139] bracelet, watch strap 20
[0140] piece, watch case 22
[0141] first organ 30
[0142] connecting end of the part in the form of a watch case 32
[0143] other end of the watch case connection 32a second organ 36
[0144] bracelet connection end 38 other bracelet connection end 38a base body 40
[0145] attachment element 44
[0146] central part of the attachment element 44a lateral part of the attachment element 44b shoulder 45
[0147] central region of the watch case 46
[0148] pivot rod 50
[0149] A24197EP / 04.02.2026 First end region 54
[0150] second end region 56
[0151] inner face 58
[0152] outer face of the attachment element 60 elastic return element, spring 64
[0153] hole 66
[0154] ergot 70
[0155] accommodation 72
[0156] retaining element, retaining rod 76 protrusion 77
[0157] Opening of housing unit 80
[0158] passage 82
[0159] connection elements 84, 84a
[0160] guide projections 86
[0161] cavity 90
[0162] obviously 91
[0163] outer face of the base body 92
[0164] side wall, other side wall of the recess 95, 95a stop 96
[0165] first guide section, notch 98, 98a, 98b second guide section, free ends of retaining element 100a, 100b contact surface of base body 104
[0166] other end contact surface of bracelet connection 106
[0167] watch case diagram B
[0168] spacing E
[0169] prestress force F
[0170] main direction P
[0171] unlocking force R
[0172] Direction of entry into the dwelling T
[0173] A24197EP / 04.02.2026
Claims
Demands 1. Connection device (10) of a bracelet to a part to which this bracelet is to be attached, the device comprising two complementary attachment members (30, 36) intended to be integral with the connection ends of the bracelet (38) and the part (32), respectively, and to be hooked to each other in the state of the bracelet attached to the part, the first component (30) of the two fastening components comprising a basic body (40) intended to be integral with one of the connecting ends chosen from the group formed by a connecting end of the bracelet (38) and a connecting end of the part (32), an attachment element (44) intended to cooperate with a second member (36) of the two fastening members, a pivoting rod (50) fixed to the base body and oriented perpendicularly to a principal direction P corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, passing through the attachment element and allowing the attachment element to pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position of the bracelet, the attachment element (44) having two end regions, a first end region (54) being oriented in the direction of the second member and a second end region (56) being oriented in the opposite direction to the second member, the first end region (54) being arranged on one side of the pivoting rod (50) and the second end region (56) being arranged on the other side, an inner face (58) oriented in the direction of the basic body (40) and an outer face A241 97 EP / 04.02.2026(60) free oriented in a direction opposite to the base body, and an elastic return element (64) configured to exert a prestressing force F pivoting one of the two end regions (54, 56) in a direction opposite to the base body towards the locking position, the attachment element (44) being pivotable in the unlocking position by exerting a unlocking force R acting against the prestressing force F, the other of the two end regions (54, 56) comprising a lug (70) projecting from the inner face (58) of the attachment element, the fastening element (44) forming a housing (72) delimited by the inner face (58), the lug (70) and the base body (40), the housing (72) being intended to receive a retaining element (76) of the second organ (36), the housing (72) having an opening (80) between the lug (70) and the base body (40) for the introduction of the retaining element into the housing, the opening having a spacing between the lug and the base body that varies between a maximum spacing in the unlocked position to allow entry or exit movement of the retaining element (76) and a minimum spacing in the locked position to block the exit of the retaining element, the second attachment element (36) of the two attachment elements comprising the retaining element (76), and a connecting element (84, 84a) of the retaining element intended to be integral with the other of the connecting ends chosen in the group formed by the connecting end of the bracelet (38) and the connecting end of A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 the piece ( 32 ) , The retaining element (76) and the lug (70) form interlocking elements to allow the first member (30) to engage with the second member (36) when, in the unlocked position reached by applying the unlocking force R, the retaining element (76) is inserted into the housing (72), and in the locked position in the absence of the unlocking force R, the retaining element is locked in the housing by the lug, characterized in that the housing (72) and the retaining element (76) are configured for the retaining element to engage in the housing (72) in a direction of engagement transverse to the direction of a tensile force acting between the two members (30, 36). additional attachments in the state of the bracelet attached to the piece.
2. Connection device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (72) extends oblongally in a direction parallel to the pivot rod (50) and is intended to receive a retaining element (76) in the form of a retaining rod, and the opening extends oblongally in a direction parallel to the pivot rod for the insertion of the retaining rod (76) into the housing (72), the retaining rod (76) being oriented perpendicular to the main direction P and arranged to extend parallel to the pivoting rod (50) in the state of the bracelet attached to the part. A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 20263 . Linking device (10 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the lug (70 ) and the retaining element (76 ) comprise complementary elements cooperating to block the movement of the retaining element (76 ) in the blocking position, preferably the lug comprising a protrusion (77 ) projecting into the interior of the housing at the level of the opening (80 ) and retaining element (76 ) having a shape complementary to the protrusion (77 ) to cooperate with the protrusion and block the movement of the retaining element in the direction of exit from the housing.
4. Connection device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the attachment element (44) extends in the main direction P in the direction oriented towards the second member beyond the pivot rod (50) by forming a guiding projection (86), and in that the second organ comprises a cavity (90) of complementary shape to the guide projection (86), the cavity being intended for receiving the guide projection in the state of the bracelet attached to the part.
5. Connection device (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that the attachment element (44) comprises a central part (44a) including the lug (70), and, viewed in the direction of the pivot rod (50), a lateral part (44b) arranged adjunctly and integrally to the central part (44a) on either side of the central part (44a), the lateral part forming the guide projection (86).
6. Connecting device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the body of A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 base ( 40 ) includes a recess ( 91 ) formed to house at least partially the attachment element ( 44 ), preferably the recess being dimensioned to receive the attachment element such that an outer face ( 92 ) free of the base body and the outer face ( 60 ) free of the attachment element are substantially flush.
7. Connection device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that the recess (91) includes a stop (96) configured to limit the pivoting of the attachment element (44) to a pivoting corresponding to the minimum spacing.
8. Linking device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first member (30) and the second member (36) comprise guide parts (98, 100a, 100b) of complementary shape cooperating with each other to guide the first member (30) relative to the second member (36) when the latter are attached and intended to be fixed to each other in the attached state of the bracelet with the part, the guide parts (98, 100a, 100b) being arranged so that, when attached, they cooperate by complementary shape when the retaining element (76) is positioned in the insertion direction T in the housing (72).
9. Connecting device (10) according to claim 8 and claim 2, characterized in that the base body (40) comprises the first guide portion and the retaining element (76) comprises the second guide portion having a shape complementary to the guide portion, the first guide portion being a notch (98) formed in the A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 2026 base body ( 40 ) , and the second guiding part being in the form of a free end ( 100a, 100b ) of the retaining rod extending in the direction of the retaining rod.
10. Connection device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the elastic return element (64) is configured to exert a prestressing force F pivoting the second end region (56), and the first end region (54) comprises the lug (70) projecting from the inner face (58) of the attachment element.
11. Linking device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the retaining element (76) is held at a distance from the other of the linking ends by the connecting element to form a passage (82) for the lug between the retaining element and the other of the linking ends, preferably the retaining element (76) being held by two connecting elements (84, 84a) of the retaining element (76) arranged at a distance from each other, seen in the direction of the pivot rod (50), the passage (82) being formed between the two connecting elements, more preferably the two connecting elements being arranged symmetrically with respect to the main direction P.
12. Wristwatch comprising a linking device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that one of the two attachment members is integral with a part forming a watch case (22) and the other of the two attachment members is integral with a bracelet (20). A241 97 EP / 04 . 02 . 202613. Wristwatch according to claim 12, characterized in that the first member (30) is integral with the watch case (22 ) and the second member (36) is integral with the bracelet (20), preferably the watch case comprising a case middle (45) of which two opposite lateral sides are arranged to receive the bracelet and form connecting ends (32, 32a) of the watch case, the case middle comprising on each of the two opposite lateral sides a base body, and the pivoting stem (50) being arranged parallel to the plane of the watch case B and perpendicular to the principal direction P.
14. Watch case (22) comprising one of the two complementary attachment members of the linking device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.
15. Bracelet (20) comprising one of the two complementary attachment members of the linking device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, preferably a watch bracelet. A24197EP / 04.02.2026