Method for inserting a decoration in an external timepiece element deposited by electroforming and an external element made in accordance with this method
AssigneeThe Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd
InventorsPascal Grossenbacher, Thomas Froelicher
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Abstract
To fabricate an external timepiece element in which there is inserted at least one decoration, the decoration is formed of anterior and posterior parts respectively intended to emerge from the external element and to serve as a mechanism of anchoring the decoration in the external element. A master mold is provided, the master mold including a hollow pattern cavity matching dimensions of the anterior part of the decoration. The decoration is placed in the pattern cavity. The master mold is filled by the galvanic deposition of a metal. The external element obtained is removed from the master mold.
Claims13
A method of fabricating an external timepiece element in which at least one discrete decoration element is inserted, the method comprising:
- a) taking a discrete decoration element including an anterior part and a posterior part respectively intended to emerge from the external element and to serve as a means of anchoring the discrete decoration element in the external timepiece element;
- b) taking a master mold made in dimensions of the external element, the master mold including a hollow pattern cavity, and matching dimensions of the anterior part of the discrete decoration element;
- c) placing the discrete decoration element in the master mold, the anterior part of the discrete decoration element filling the pattern cavity made in the master mold;
- d) after c), filling the master mold by galvanic deposition of a metal to obtain a the external element;
- and
- e) removing the external element from the master mold.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.