EP3327517B1 - Dial for a timepiece - Google Patents

Dial for a timepiece Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3327517B1
EP3327517B1 EP16200687.8A EP16200687A EP3327517B1 EP 3327517 B1 EP3327517 B1 EP 3327517B1 EP 16200687 A EP16200687 A EP 16200687A EP 3327517 B1 EP3327517 B1 EP 3327517B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
substrate
window
dial
layer
light source
Prior art date
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EP16200687.8A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3327517A1 (en
Inventor
Frédéric Dreyer-Gonzales
Arnaud HOURIET
Cédric Chavaillaz
Joël PERRET
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Officine Panerai AG
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Officine Panerai AG
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Priority to EP16200687.8A priority Critical patent/EP3327517B1/en
Publication of EP3327517A1 publication Critical patent/EP3327517A1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B19/00—Indicating the time by visual means
    • G04B19/30—Illumination of dials or hands
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B19/00—Indicating the time by visual means
    • G04B19/30—Illumination of dials or hands
    • G04B19/32—Illumination of dials or hands by luminescent substances

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of watchmaking. It relates more particularly to a watch dial as well as its manufacturing process.
  • Panerai The house of Panerai is well known for its black multi-level dials, the indexes of which are formed by openings in a top plate. These openings reveal a lower plate provided with a luminescent layer. This arrangement provides a clearly readable dial, not only during the day, but also at night.
  • the readability of the dial depends on the contrast between the color of the upper plate and that of the lower plate, particularly under strong direct light. Typically, a black color layer is applied to the top plate to provide this contrast.
  • varnishes and paints commonly used for this purpose reflect too much incident light to provide sufficient readability in strong direct light. This disadvantage occurs even when the black color is formed by vapor deposited amorphous carbon, as described in the document. CH705576 .
  • the document US2011 / 301282 proposes a black polymer material for injection molding in which the final polymer comprises between 0.01% to 0.3% by mass of carbon nanotubes instead of the usual 0.4% to 1.5% of carbon black, with the aim of improving the mechanical properties by compared to a polymer colored with carbon black.
  • the aim of the invention is therefore to provide a dial for a timepiece, in which the aforementioned defects are at least partially overcome.
  • the invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such a dial.
  • the invention relates to a dial for a timepiece.
  • This dial is multilevel, and for this purpose comprises a first substrate comprising a first surface intended to be located opposite a watch glass, as well as a second surface on the side opposite said first surface.
  • the first substrate further comprises at least one window, constituted for example by an opening in the case of an opaque material and an optical passage in the case of a translucent material, this window serving as an index.
  • the dial further comprises at least one second substrate attached to said first substrate facing said second surface and which is associated with a light source, said second substrate comprising an area facing said at least one window. Therefore, part of the second substrate, or a coating located thereon, is visible through the window (s).
  • the top surface of the first substrate includes a tinted layer on at least a portion of its surface, which includes carbon nanotubes.
  • the windows can be formed by selective deposition of this layer.
  • the use of carbon nanotubes in the layer gives the first substrate a particularly deep blackness, which improves the contrast with the surface of said zone of the second substrate visible through the openings. This contrast is sufficient even to provide adequate contrast when the dial is subjected to direct strong illumination, and minimizes light reflections from its surface.
  • said layer comprises a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass, preferably at least 1.0% by mass, of carbon nanotubes.
  • the dial can thus be produced using conventional varnishing equipment, without having to subject the dial to a heat source.
  • said layer comprises carbon nanotubes deposited directly on said surface or directly on an additional substrate fixed to said surface.
  • a particularly dark color, which has a light absorption coefficient which approaches 100% is therefore obtained.
  • at least 50% of the carbon nanotubes can extend substantially perpendicular to the plane of said first substrate.
  • the light source can be a luminescent coating deposited on said second substrate facing said opening, for example in a hollow formed in the surface of this substrate for this purpose, or directly on the flat surface of the latter.
  • the second substrate can even be made from a luminescent material.
  • the light source comprises an electric light source, for example a thin film LED placed on the surface of the second substrate, a conventional or thin film LED placed between the two substrates and the light of which is reflected by a paint, a surface treatment or coating, a fluorescent tint, the native surface of the substrate, or the like, visible through the openings, or the like.
  • the light source can be passive, such as an element comprising a photoluminescent material, for example a tritium element.
  • a dial is obtained in which the use of carbon nanotubes in said layer imparts a particularly deep blackness to the first substrate, which improves the contrast with the surface of said zone of the second substrate visible through the openings. This contrast is sufficient even to provide adequate contrast when the dial is subjected to direct strong illumination, and minimizes light reflections from its surface.
  • said layer is applied in the form of a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass, preferably at least 1% by mass, of carbon nanotubes, which is compatible with current coating equipment, and does not require any heating of the substrate.
  • the method further comprises a step consisting in burning at least part of said layer in order to generate combustion of at least part of said varnish.
  • part of the varnish is converted to amorphous carbon, which reduces the shine of the surface and makes it even more matt.
  • said layer is applied by a deposition process, for example a PVD, CVD or similar deposition.
  • At least 20% of the carbon nanotubes extend substantially perpendicular to the plane of said first substrate, which provides a particularly deep blackness to the first substrate.
  • the light source is a luminescent coating deposited on said second substrate, for example in a hollow created for this purpose, or directly on a flat surface of the substrate.
  • the light source may include an electric light source, for example a thin-film LED placed on the surface of the second substrate, a conventional LED placed between the two substrates and the light of which is reflected by a paint, a surface treatment , a fluorescent tint or the like visible through the openings.
  • the light source can be a tritium element, or an element comprising any other photoluminescent material.
  • the invention also relates to a dial as defined above obtained and / or obtainable by a method as described above, as well as a timepiece comprising such a dial.
  • the figure 1 schematically illustrates a dial 1 according to the invention, in plan and in section along line AA.
  • This dial 1 comprises a first substrate 3, forming an upper plate, which is perforated in predetermined regions in order to form windows 5 acting as an index.
  • these windows 5 are formed by openings in the first substrate 3.
  • This substrate 3 comprises a first surface 19, intended to be facing a glass of a timepiece and therefore visible to a user. , and a second surface 20, opposite said first.
  • the first substrate 3 is superimposed on a second substrate 7, forming a lower plate, located opposite the second surface 20 of the first substrate 3.
  • the second substrate 7 is a disc having substantially the same diameter as the first. substrate 3, but it is also possible for the second substrate to be divided into several parts, each of which is located under corresponding windows 5.
  • the second substrate 7 can carry dial feet 9, if the construction of the part in which the dial 1 is intended to be integrated so requires.
  • This second substrate 7 is fixed below the first 3, for example by gluing, welding, clamping, or by means of pins, studs, screws, or the like.
  • the dial 1 may include, as generally known, openings 17 for the passage of the needle axes.
  • the second substrate 7 is associated with a light source.
  • this light source is a layer 11 of a luminescent material that the surface of the second substrate 7 comprises. This layer is provided in recesses 13 formed in the upper surface of the second substrate 7.
  • luminescent is meant (at least partially) photoluminescent, phosphorescent, fluorescent or the like.
  • a varnish can be made luminescent, for example by adding luminescent particles.
  • the two substrates 3, 7 can be spaced apart from each other, and the light source can be on the upper surface of the second substrate 7, as illustrated schematically in the figure. figure 2 .
  • the second substrate 7 can of course include hollows 13 to receive the light source.
  • the entire surface of the second substrate 7 may be coated with a luminescent layer, or the second substrate 7 itself may be made of a material which is at least partially luminescent as such.
  • the light source 11 can be for example a thin-film LED, supplied with energy by a battery.
  • the LED is located below window 5 and is therefore directly visible to the user.
  • the light source is a conventional LED, arranged so that it emits light beams in the gap between the two substrates 3, 7.
  • a conventional bulb is also possible.
  • a light-colored zone 11a or one comprising a colored or fluorescent layer can be situated opposite the window 5.
  • the LED can emit visible light, or ultraviolet light.
  • the entire upper surface of the second substrate 7 is colored or coated with a tint, a surface treatment, a reflective coating (for example metallic) or a fluorescent layer in order to convert and / or diffuse the color. light emanating from the LED.
  • the LED can be a thin-film LED which is located on the lower surface of the first substrate 3 facing the second substrate 7, or else on the upper surface of the second substrate 7 facing the first 3.
  • the lower surface of the first substrate 3 can be arranged to reflect the light emanating from the LED, for example by being polished, colored, or the like.
  • a tritium element can also serve as a light source 11.
  • the first substrate 3 is formed of translucent or transparent material, such as glass, quartz, transparent polymer or the like, and the window 5 is formed as a part of the substrate 3 which does not have a tint layer 21 in predetermined regions and therefore allows light to pass.
  • This solution can also be applied to any other embodiment as described above.
  • the light source 11 is located outside the substrates 3, 7, and its light is reflected between the surfaces of these. last. This solution is suitable for use with any light source, for example a tritium element, an LED, a bulb, or the like.
  • all or part of the upper surface 19 of the first substrate 3 is provided with a layer 21 comprising carbon nanotubes, more particularly at least 0.1% by weight of such nanotubes, or preferably at least 1.0% by weight.
  • This layer 21 can, for example, be a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass of carbon nanotubes, which remains compatible with coating equipment already in use.
  • the base of the varnish can be transparent or already black in color.
  • the layer 21 can be a carpet of carbon nanotubes deposited directly on the first substrate 3 or on an additional substrate which is subsequently secured to the first substrate 3.
  • a carpet can for example comprise at least 50% by mass of carbon nanotubes. , or even at least 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% by mass, the remainder being made up of other forms of carbon (particularly the amorphous form).
  • Vacuum deposition processes for example by evaporation of carbon at high temperature in a noble gas environment at high pressure (which represents a form of PVD), synthesized by Laser ablation, or CVD synthesis, can be used.
  • the carbon nanotubes can be single or multi-walled, or a mixture of the two, and typically have a diameter of the order of a few nanometers.
  • the carbon nanotubes extend mainly in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the dial, the light absorption effect is particularly pronounced, since the light enters the nanotubes and the interstices between the nanotubes, from where it can hardly get out without being absorbed. In such a case, it is possible to provide a proportion of at least 20%, at least 30% or even 40% or more of the nanotubes which follow this direction.
  • a thickness of the layer 21 of between 0.05 mm and 1 mm makes it possible to guarantee sufficient absorption of light, and to prevent the layer 21 from becoming too thick.
  • This mat can optionally be coated itself with a protective layer, such as a varnish, or a deposit of another material, in order to prevent the nanotubes detaching from the substrate and generating carbon dust in the substrate. interior of the room.
  • a protective layer such as a varnish, or a deposit of another material, in order to prevent the nanotubes detaching from the substrate and generating carbon dust in the substrate. interior of the room.
  • This protective layer can also be burnt as described above.
  • the dial thus constructed therefore has an ultra-black appearance on the first substrate 3, which makes an excellent contrast with the parts of the second substrate 7 visible through the windows 5, even in the case of very strong direct illumination.
  • the figure 4 schematically illustrates a variant of a method of manufacturing a dial 1 according to the invention. Only a portion of the dial and its components is illustrated in these figures, as is the case for the figures 2 and 3 .
  • a first substrate 3 is provided, which can be a plate made of metal, plastic, crystalline material (diamond, alumina, silicon, SiN, SiC, SiO or the like) or any other suitable material.
  • step 102 the plate constituting the first substrate 3 is perforated, where appropriate, in order to form the openings 5 acting as windows 5 intended to form indexes.
  • These 5 openings can be created by cutting, stamping, wet or dry engraving, or any other suitable process.
  • This step can be omitted if the first substrate 3 is created at least partially by additive manufacturing, and if the windows are formed as openings manufactured at the same time as the substrate 3.
  • the first substrate 3 is translucent and the windows are intended to be formed by selective deposition of the layer 21 in the following step, this step can also be omitted.
  • step 103 the layer 21 comprising carbon nanotubes is applied to the upper surface 19 of the first substrate 3, either directly or by being formed on an intermediate plate which is attached to the first substrate 3.
  • this application can be carried out via varnishing, a PVD process, a CVD process, or the like.
  • a possible protective layer can also be applied after formation of the layer 21.
  • the windows 5 can be formed by selective deposition of the layer 21, as mentioned above.
  • a second substrate 7 is provided, which can be made of a material as for the first substrate 3 (see above).
  • a hollow 13 has already been formed in a zone of the second substrate 7 intended to be opposite the opening 5. This hollow 13 has previously been filled with a luminescent material 11.
  • steps 105a, 105b the two substrates 3, 7 are brought together, and then secured to one another in order to form the dial 1, for example by gluing, welding, screwing, clamping or the like.
  • steps 102 and 103 can take place in an opposite order, that is to say that the layer 21 can be applied to the surface 19 of the substrate 3 before cutting (if necessary).
  • steps 102 and 103 can take place in an opposite order, that is to say that the layer 21 can be applied to the surface 19 of the substrate 3 before cutting (if necessary).
  • this variant requires more handling of the coated substrate, which increases the risk of scratches and other damage to the surface.

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  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention se rapporte au domaine de l'horlogerie. Elle concerne, plus particulièrement, un cadran de montre ainsi que son procédé de fabrication.The present invention relates to the field of watchmaking. It relates more particularly to a watch dial as well as its manufacturing process.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

La maison Panerai est bien connue pour ses cadrans noirs multiniveaux, dont les index sont formés par des ouvertures ménagées dans une plaque supérieure. Ces ouvertures laissent voir une plaque inférieure munie d'une couche luminescente. Cet agencement fournit un cadran bien lisible, non seulement pendant la journée, mais aussi pendant la nuit.The house of Panerai is well known for its black multi-level dials, the indexes of which are formed by openings in a top plate. These openings reveal a lower plate provided with a luminescent layer. This arrangement provides a clearly readable dial, not only during the day, but also at night.

La lisibilité du cadran dépend du contraste entre la couleur de la plaque supérieure, et celle de la plaque inférieure, particulièrement sous une lumière directe forte. Typiquement, une couche de couleur noire est appliquée à la plaque supérieure afin d'assurer ce contraste.The readability of the dial depends on the contrast between the color of the upper plate and that of the lower plate, particularly under strong direct light. Typically, a black color layer is applied to the top plate to provide this contrast.

Cependant, les vernis et les peintures communément utilisés à cette fin réfléchissent trop de lumière incidente pour conférer une lisibilité suffisante en cas de lumière directe forte. Cet inconvénient se produit même lorsque la couleur noire est formée de carbone amorphe déposé en phase vapeur, comme décrit dans le document CH705576 .However, varnishes and paints commonly used for this purpose reflect too much incident light to provide sufficient readability in strong direct light. This disadvantage occurs even when the black color is formed by vapor deposited amorphous carbon, as described in the document. CH705576 .

Le document US2011/301282 propose une matière polymère noire pour moulage par injection dans laquelle le polymère final comporte entre 0.01% à 0.3% massique de nanotubes de carbone au lieu du 0.4% à 1.5% de noir de carbone habituel, dans le but d'améliorer les propriétés mécaniques par rapport à un polymère coloré avec du noir de carbone.The document US2011 / 301282 proposes a black polymer material for injection molding in which the final polymer comprises between 0.01% to 0.3% by mass of carbon nanotubes instead of the usual 0.4% to 1.5% of carbon black, with the aim of improving the mechanical properties by compared to a polymer colored with carbon black.

Le but de l'invention est par conséquent de proposer un cadran pour pièce d'horlogerie, dans lequel les défauts susmentionnés sont au moins partiellement surmontés. L'invention concerne également un procédé de fabrication d'un tel cadran.The aim of the invention is therefore to provide a dial for a timepiece, in which the aforementioned defects are at least partially overcome. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such a dial.

Divulguation de l'inventionDisclosure of the invention

De façon plus précise, l'invention concerne un cadran pour pièce d'horlogerie. Ce cadran est multiniveau, et à cet effet comprend un premier substrat comprenant une première surface destinée à se situer en regard d'un verre de montre, ainsi qu'une deuxième surface sur le côté opposé à ladite première surface. Le premier substrat comprend en outre au moins une fenêtre, constituée par exemple par une ouverture dans le cas d'un matériau opaque et un passage optique dans le cas d'un matériau translucide, cette fenêtre servant d'index. Le cadran comporte en outre au moins un deuxième substrat fixé audit premier substrat en regard de ladite deuxième surface et qui est associé à une source lumineuse, ledit deuxième substrat comprenant une zone en regard de ladite au moins une fenêtre. Par conséquent, une partie du deuxième substrat, ou un revêtement situé dessus, est visible au travers de la ou des fenêtre(s).More specifically, the invention relates to a dial for a timepiece. This dial is multilevel, and for this purpose comprises a first substrate comprising a first surface intended to be located opposite a watch glass, as well as a second surface on the side opposite said first surface. The first substrate further comprises at least one window, constituted for example by an opening in the case of an opaque material and an optical passage in the case of a translucent material, this window serving as an index. The dial further comprises at least one second substrate attached to said first substrate facing said second surface and which is associated with a light source, said second substrate comprising an area facing said at least one window. Therefore, part of the second substrate, or a coating located thereon, is visible through the window (s).

La surface supérieure du premier substrat comprend une couche teintée sur au moins une partie de sa surface, qui comprend des nanotubes de carbone. Dans le cas d'un premier substrat translucide, les fenêtres peuvent être formées par déposition sélective de cette couche.The top surface of the first substrate includes a tinted layer on at least a portion of its surface, which includes carbon nanotubes. In the case of a first translucent substrate, the windows can be formed by selective deposition of this layer.

L'utilisation de nanotubes de carbone dans la couche confère au premier substrat une noirceur particulièrement profonde, ce qui améliore le contraste avec la surface de ladite zone du deuxième substrat visible au travers des ouvertures. Ce contraste suffit même à conférer un contraste adéquat lorsque le cadran est soumis à une illumination forte directe, et minimise les réflexions de lumière de sa surface.The use of carbon nanotubes in the layer gives the first substrate a particularly deep blackness, which improves the contrast with the surface of said zone of the second substrate visible through the openings. This contrast is sufficient even to provide adequate contrast when the dial is subjected to direct strong illumination, and minimizes light reflections from its surface.

Selon une première variante de l'invention, ladite couche comprend un vernis comprenant au moins 0,1% massique, de préférence au moins 1,0% massique, de nanotubes de carbone. Le cadran peut ainsi être produit à l'aide d'équipements de vernissage conventionnels, sans devoir soumettre le cadran à une source de chaleur.According to a first variant of the invention, said layer comprises a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass, preferably at least 1.0% by mass, of carbon nanotubes. The dial can thus be produced using conventional varnishing equipment, without having to subject the dial to a heat source.

Selon une deuxième variante de l'invention, ladite couche comprend des nanotubes de carbone déposés directement sur ladite surface ou directement sur un substrat supplémentaire fixé à ladite surface. Une couleur particulièrement foncée, qui présente un coefficient d'absorption de lumière qui s'approche à 100% est donc obtenue. Pour maximiser cet effet, au moins 50% des nanotubes de carbone peuvent s'étendre substantiellement perpendiculairement au plan dudit premier substrat.According to a second variant of the invention, said layer comprises carbon nanotubes deposited directly on said surface or directly on an additional substrate fixed to said surface. A particularly dark color, which has a light absorption coefficient which approaches 100% is therefore obtained. To maximize this effect, at least 50% of the carbon nanotubes can extend substantially perpendicular to the plane of said first substrate.

Avantageusement, la source lumineuse peut être un revêtement luminescent déposé sur ledit deuxième substrat en regard de ladite ouverture, par exemple dans un creux formé dans la surface de ce substrat à cet effet, ou directement sur la surface plane de ce dernier. Le deuxième substrat peut même être réalisé dans un matériau luminescent.Advantageously, the light source can be a luminescent coating deposited on said second substrate facing said opening, for example in a hollow formed in the surface of this substrate for this purpose, or directly on the flat surface of the latter. The second substrate can even be made from a luminescent material.

Alternativement, la source lumineuse comporte une source de lumière électrique, par exemple une LED à couche mince placée sur la surface du deuxième substrat, une LED conventionnelle ou à couche mince placée entre les deux substrats et dont la lumière est réfléchie par une peinture, un traitement ou revêtement de surface, une teinte fluorescente, la surface native du substrat, ou similaire, visible au travers des ouvertures, ou similaire. Alternativement, la source lumineuse peut être passive, comme un élément comprenant un matériau photoluminescent, par exemple un élément à tritium.Alternatively, the light source comprises an electric light source, for example a thin film LED placed on the surface of the second substrate, a conventional or thin film LED placed between the two substrates and the light of which is reflected by a paint, a surface treatment or coating, a fluorescent tint, the native surface of the substrate, or the like, visible through the openings, or the like. Alternatively, the light source can be passive, such as an element comprising a photoluminescent material, for example a tritium element.

L'invention concerne également un procédé de fabrication d'un cadran pour pièce d'horlogerie, comprenant les étapes suivantes, qui ne doivent pas nécessairement se dérouler dans l'ordre indiqué ; toute suite d'étapes réalisable est possible :

  • se munir d'un premier substrat comprenant une première surface destinée à se situer en regard d'un verre de montre et une deuxième surface opposée à ladite première surface, au moins une région dudit premier substrat étant destinée à former au moins une fenêtre servant d'index. Le premier substrat peut être obtenu par des procédés de fabrication additive ou soustractive, ou une combinaison des deux ; s'il est réalisé de manière additive, ladite au moins une fenêtre peut être formée en tant qu'ouverture directement lors de la fabrication du substrat ;
  • ajourer, le cas échéant, ledit substrat afin de former au moins une ouverture constituant ladite fenêtre. Cette étape n'est pas effectuée dans le cas d'un substrat présentant des ouvertures formées intégralement lors d'une fabrication additive, ou dans le cas d'un substrat translucide non ajouré ;
  • appliquer sur au moins une partie de ladite première surface du premier substrat une couche comprenant des nanotubes de carbone ; il faut noter que cette étape peut être effectuée avant celle de l'ajourage du substrat, le cas échéant, et dans le cas d'un substrat translucide, les fenêtres peuvent être formées par application sélective de ladite couche pendant cette étape ;
  • se munir d'un deuxième substrat associé à une source lumineuse, ledit deuxième substrat comprenant une zone destinée à se situer en regard de ladite au moins une fenêtre ;
  • fixer ledit deuxième substrat au premier substrat en regard de la deuxième surface, afin que ladite zone est en regard de ladite au moins une ouverture. À nouveau, cette étape peut avoir lieu avant l'étape d'application de ladite couche.
The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a dial for a timepiece, comprising the following steps, which need not necessarily take place in the order indicated; any feasible sequence of steps is possible:
  • provide a first substrate comprising a first surface intended to be located opposite a watch glass and a second surface opposite said first surface, at least one region of said first substrate being intended to form at least one window serving as a 'index. The first substrate can be obtained by additive or subtractive manufacturing processes, or a combination of the two; if it is made additively, said at least one window can be formed as an opening directly during the manufacture of the substrate;
  • perforating, where appropriate, said substrate in order to form at least one opening constituting said window. This step is not carried out in the case of a substrate having openings formed entirely during additive manufacturing, or in the case of a non-perforated translucent substrate;
  • applying to at least a portion of said first surface of the first substrate a layer comprising carbon nanotubes; it should be noted that this step can be carried out before that of the perforation of the substrate, if necessary, and in the case of a translucent substrate, the windows can be formed by selective application of said layer during this step;
  • provide a second substrate associated with a light source, said second substrate comprising a zone intended to be located opposite said at least one window;
  • fixing said second substrate to the first substrate facing the second surface, so that said area is facing said at least one opening. Again, this step can take place before the step of applying said layer.

Ce faisant, un cadran est obtenu dans lequel l'utilisation de nanotubes de carbone dans ladite couche confère une noirceur particulièrement profonde au premier substrat, ce qui améliore le contraste avec la surface de ladite zone du deuxième substrat visible au travers des ouvertures. Ce contraste suffit même pour conférer un contraste adéquat lorsque le cadran est soumis à une illumination forte directe, et minimise les réflexions de lumière de sa surface.In doing so, a dial is obtained in which the use of carbon nanotubes in said layer imparts a particularly deep blackness to the first substrate, which improves the contrast with the surface of said zone of the second substrate visible through the openings. This contrast is sufficient even to provide adequate contrast when the dial is subjected to direct strong illumination, and minimizes light reflections from its surface.

Selon une première variante de l'invention, ladite couche est appliquée sous forme de vernis comprenant au moins 0,1% massique, de préférence au moins 1% massique, de nanotubes de carbone, ce qui est compatible avec des équipements de vernissage courants, et ne nécessite aucun chauffage du substrat.According to a first variant of the invention, said layer is applied in the form of a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass, preferably at least 1% by mass, of carbon nanotubes, which is compatible with current coating equipment, and does not require any heating of the substrate.

Avantageusement, le procédé comprend en outre une étape consistant à brûler au moins une partie ladite couche afin d'engendrer une combustion d'au moins une partie dudit vernis. Ce faisant, une partie du vernis est converti en carbone amorphe, ce qui réduit l'éclat de la surface et le rend encore plus mat.Advantageously, the method further comprises a step consisting in burning at least part of said layer in order to generate combustion of at least part of said varnish. In doing so, part of the varnish is converted to amorphous carbon, which reduces the shine of the surface and makes it even more matt.

Selon une deuxième variante de l'invention, ladite couche est appliquée par un procédé de dépôt, par exemple un dépôt PVD, CVD ou similaire.According to a second variant of the invention, said layer is applied by a deposition process, for example a PVD, CVD or similar deposition.

Avantageusement, au moins 20% des nanotubes de carbone s'étendent substantiellement perpendiculairement au plan dudit premier substrat, ce qui fournit une noirceur particulièrement profonde au premier substrat.Advantageously, at least 20% of the carbon nanotubes extend substantially perpendicular to the plane of said first substrate, which provides a particularly deep blackness to the first substrate.

Dans une variante, la source lumineuse est un revêtement luminescent déposé sur ledit deuxième substrat, par exemple dans un creux crée à cette fin, ou directement sur une surface plane du substrat.In one variant, the light source is a luminescent coating deposited on said second substrate, for example in a hollow created for this purpose, or directly on a flat surface of the substrate.

Alternativement, la source lumineuse peut comporter une source de lumière électrique, par exemple une LED à couche mince placée sur la surface du deuxième substrat, une LED conventionnelle placée entre les deux substrats et dont la lumière est réfléchie par une peinture, un traitement de surface, une teinte fluorescente ou similaire visible au travers des ouvertures. Alternativement, la source lumineuse peut être un élément à tritium, ou un élément comprenant n'importe quel autre matériau photoluminescent.Alternatively, the light source may include an electric light source, for example a thin-film LED placed on the surface of the second substrate, a conventional LED placed between the two substrates and the light of which is reflected by a paint, a surface treatment , a fluorescent tint or the like visible through the openings. Alternatively, the light source can be a tritium element, or an element comprising any other photoluminescent material.

Finalement, l'invention porte également sur un cadran comme défini ci-dessus obtenu et/ou obtenable par un procédé comme décrit ci-dessus, ainsi qu'une pièce d'horlogerie comprenant un tel cadran.Finally, the invention also relates to a dial as defined above obtained and / or obtainable by a method as described above, as well as a timepiece comprising such a dial.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres détails de l'invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description qui suit, faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • Fig. 1 est une vue schématique en coupe et une vue en plan schématique d'un cadran selon l'invention ;
  • Fig. 2 est une vue schématique en coupe d'une partie d'un cadran selon une autre variante de l'invention ;
  • Fig. 3 est une vue schématique en coupe d'une partie d'un cadran selon encore une autre variante de l'invention ;
  • Fig. 3a est une vue schématique en coupe d'une partie d'un cadran selon encore une autre variante de l'invention ; et
  • Fig. 4 est une représentation d'un procédé de fabrication d'un cadran selon l'invention, illustrant une partie des composants concernés à chaque étape.
Other details of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the following description, given with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • Fig. 1 is a schematic sectional view and a schematic plan view of a dial according to the invention;
  • Fig. 2 is a schematic sectional view of part of a dial according to another variant of the invention;
  • Fig. 3 is a schematic sectional view of part of a dial according to yet another variant of the invention;
  • Fig. 3a is a schematic sectional view of part of a dial according to yet another variant of the invention; and
  • Fig. 4 is a representation of a method of manufacturing a dial according to the invention, illustrating some of the components concerned at each step.

Modes de réalisation de l'inventionEmbodiments of the invention

La figure 1 illustre schématiquement un cadran 1 selon l'invention, en plan et en section selon la ligne A-A. Ce cadran 1 comporte un premier substrat 3, formant une plaque supérieure, qui est ajourée dans des régions prédéterminées afin de former des fenêtres 5 faisant office d'index. Dans la variante illustrée, ces fenêtres 5 sont constitués par des ouvertures dans le premier substrat 3. Ce substrat 3 comporte une première surface 19, destinée à être en regard d'un verre d'une pièce d'horlogerie et donc visible à un utilisateur, et une deuxième surface 20, opposée à ladite première.The figure 1 schematically illustrates a dial 1 according to the invention, in plan and in section along line AA. This dial 1 comprises a first substrate 3, forming an upper plate, which is perforated in predetermined regions in order to form windows 5 acting as an index. In the variant illustrated, these windows 5 are formed by openings in the first substrate 3. This substrate 3 comprises a first surface 19, intended to be facing a glass of a timepiece and therefore visible to a user. , and a second surface 20, opposite said first.

Le premier substrat 3 est superposé à un deuxième substrat 7, formant une plaque inférieure, située en regard de la deuxième surface 20 du premier substrat 3. Dans la variante illustrée, le deuxième substrat 7 est un disque présentant substantiellement le même diamètre que le premier substrat 3, mais il est également possible que le deuxième substrat soit divisé en plusieurs parties, chacune étant située sous des fenêtres 5 correspondantes. Le deuxième substrat 7 peut porter des pieds de cadran 9, si la construction de la pièce dans laquelle le cadran 1 est destiné à être intégré l'exige.The first substrate 3 is superimposed on a second substrate 7, forming a lower plate, located opposite the second surface 20 of the first substrate 3. In the variant illustrated, the second substrate 7 is a disc having substantially the same diameter as the first. substrate 3, but it is also possible for the second substrate to be divided into several parts, each of which is located under corresponding windows 5. The second substrate 7 can carry dial feet 9, if the construction of the part in which the dial 1 is intended to be integrated so requires.

Ce deuxième substrat 7 est fixé en dessous du premier 3, par exemple par collage, soudage, serrage, ou au moyen de goupilles, de plots, de vis, ou similaire.This second substrate 7 is fixed below the first 3, for example by gluing, welding, clamping, or by means of pins, studs, screws, or the like.

Par ailleurs, le cadran 1 peut comporter, comme généralement connu, des ouvertures 17 pour le passage des axes d'aiguilles.Furthermore, the dial 1 may include, as generally known, openings 17 for the passage of the needle axes.

Le deuxième substrat 7 est associé à une source lumineuse. Dans la variante illustrée dans la figure 1, cette source lumineuse est une couche 11 d'un matériau luminescent que comporte la surface du deuxième substrat 7. Cette couche est prévue dans des creux 13 formés dans la surface supérieure du deuxième substrat 7. Par « luminescente », on entend (au moins partiellement) photoluminescent, phosphorescent, fluorescent ou similaire. Un vernis peut être rendu luminescent par exemple par adjonction de particules luminescentes.The second substrate 7 is associated with a light source. In the variant illustrated in figure 1 , this light source is a layer 11 of a luminescent material that the surface of the second substrate 7 comprises. This layer is provided in recesses 13 formed in the upper surface of the second substrate 7. By “luminescent” is meant (at least partially) photoluminescent, phosphorescent, fluorescent or the like. A varnish can be made luminescent, for example by adding luminescent particles.

Alternativement, les deux substrats 3, 7 peuvent être espacés l'un de l'autre, et la source lumineuse peut se trouver sur la surface supérieure du deuxième substrat 7, comme illustré schématiquement dans la figure 2. Dans cette variante, le deuxième substrat 7 peut bien entendu comporter des creux 13 pour recevoir la source lumineuse. Encore alternativement, toute la surface du deuxième substrat 7 peut être revêtue d'une couche luminescente, ou le deuxième substrat 7 lui-même peut être réalisé dans un matériau qui est au moins partiellement luminescent en tant que tel.Alternatively, the two substrates 3, 7 can be spaced apart from each other, and the light source can be on the upper surface of the second substrate 7, as illustrated schematically in the figure. figure 2 . In this variant, the second substrate 7 can of course include hollows 13 to receive the light source. Still alternatively, the entire surface of the second substrate 7 may be coated with a luminescent layer, or the second substrate 7 itself may be made of a material which is at least partially luminescent as such.

En tant qu'alternative à une couche luminescente, la source lumineuse 11 peut être par exemple une LED à couche mince, alimentée en énergie par une batterie. La LED se situe en dessous de la fenêtre 5 et est donc directement visible à l'utilisateur.As an alternative to a luminescent layer, the light source 11 can be for example a thin-film LED, supplied with energy by a battery. The LED is located below window 5 and is therefore directly visible to the user.

Dans la variante de la figure 3, la source lumineuse est une LED conventionnelle, disposée de telle sorte qu'elle émet des faisceaux lumineux dans l'interstice entre les deux substrats 3, 7. Une ampoule conventionnelle est également possible. Une zone 11a de couleur claire ou comportant une couche colorée ou fluorescente peut se situer en regard de la fenêtre 5. Le LED peut émettre de la lumière visible, ou ultraviolette. Il est également possible que toute la surface supérieure du deuxième substrat 7 soit colorée ou revêtue d'une teinte, un traitement de surface, un revêtement réfléchissant (par exemple métallique) ou d'une couche fluorescente afin de convertir et/ou de diffuser la lumière émanant de la LED. Encore alternativement, la LED peut être une LED à couche mince qui se situe sur la surface inférieure du premier substrat 3 en regard du deuxième substrat 7, ou bien sur la surface supérieure du deuxième substrat 7 en regard du premier 3. Dans ce dernier cas, la surface inférieure du premier substrat 3 peut être agencée pour réfléchir la lumière émanant de la LED, par exemple en étant polie, colorée, ou similaire. Un élément à tritium peut également servir de source lumineuse 11.In the variant of figure 3 , the light source is a conventional LED, arranged so that it emits light beams in the gap between the two substrates 3, 7. A conventional bulb is also possible. A light-colored zone 11a or one comprising a colored or fluorescent layer can be situated opposite the window 5. The LED can emit visible light, or ultraviolet light. It is also possible that the entire upper surface of the second substrate 7 is colored or coated with a tint, a surface treatment, a reflective coating (for example metallic) or a fluorescent layer in order to convert and / or diffuse the color. light emanating from the LED. Again alternatively, the LED can be a thin-film LED which is located on the lower surface of the first substrate 3 facing the second substrate 7, or else on the upper surface of the second substrate 7 facing the first 3. In the latter case , the lower surface of the first substrate 3 can be arranged to reflect the light emanating from the LED, for example by being polished, colored, or the like. A tritium element can also serve as a light source 11.

Dans la variante de la figure 3a, le premier substrat 3 est formé en matériau translucide ou transparent, tel que le verre, le quartz, un polymère transparent ou similaire, et la fenêtre 5 est formée en tant qu'une partie du substrat 3 qui ne comporte pas de couche teintée 21 dans des régions prédéterminées et laisse donc passer de la lumière. Cette solution peut s'appliquer également à n'importe quel autre mode de réalisation comme décrit ci-dessus. Par ailleurs, la source de lumière 11 se trouve à l'extérieure des substrats 3, 7, et sa lumière est réfléchie entre les surface de ces derniers. Cette solution est apte d'être utilisée avec n'importe quelle source de lumière, par exemple un élément à tritium, un LED, une ampoule, ou similaire.In the variant of figure 3a , the first substrate 3 is formed of translucent or transparent material, such as glass, quartz, transparent polymer or the like, and the window 5 is formed as a part of the substrate 3 which does not have a tint layer 21 in predetermined regions and therefore allows light to pass. This solution can also be applied to any other embodiment as described above. Furthermore, the light source 11 is located outside the substrates 3, 7, and its light is reflected between the surfaces of these. last. This solution is suitable for use with any light source, for example a tritium element, an LED, a bulb, or the like.

Selon l'invention, tout ou partie de la surface supérieure 19 du premier substrat 3 est muni d'une couche 21 comprenant des nanotubes de carbone, plus particulièrement au moins 0.1% massique de tels nanotubes, ou de préférence au moins 1.0% massique.According to the invention, all or part of the upper surface 19 of the first substrate 3 is provided with a layer 21 comprising carbon nanotubes, more particularly at least 0.1% by weight of such nanotubes, or preferably at least 1.0% by weight.

En effet, certains agencements de nanotubes peuvent produire une couleur noire extrêmement profonde, avec un coefficient d'absorption très élevé, jusqu'à de l'ordre de 99,955%. Par conséquent, même dans le cas d'une lumière directe forte, la quantité de lumière réfléchie reste très faible, et le contraste entre la couleur du premier substrat 3 et les portions de la surface du deuxième substrat 7 visible au travers les fenêtres 5, reste bon.Indeed, certain arrangements of nanotubes can produce an extremely deep black color, with a very high absorption coefficient, up to of the order of 99.955%. Therefore, even in the case of strong direct light, the amount of reflected light remains very low, and the contrast between the color of the first substrate 3 and the portions of the surface of the second substrate 7 visible through the windows 5, stay good.

Cette couche 21 peut, par exemple, être un vernis comprenant au moins 0.1% massique de nanotubes de carbone, ce qui reste compatible avec des équipements de vernissage déjà utilisés. Plus la proportion de nanotubes est grande, plus le teinte est sombre. Par exemple, >1%, >10%, >20%, >30%...(pourcentage massique) sont également avantageux. La base du vernis peut être transparente ou déjà de couleur noire.This layer 21 can, for example, be a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass of carbon nanotubes, which remains compatible with coating equipment already in use. The greater the proportion of nanotubes, the darker the shade. For example,> 1%,> 10%,> 20%,> 30% ... (mass percentage) are also advantageous. The base of the varnish can be transparent or already black in color.

Afin de rendre le vernis encore plus sombre, on peut brûler au moins une partie de sa surface, par exemple par l'intermédiaire d'un traitement thermique tel qu'une flamme à gaz, afin d'effectuer une combustion du vernis. Ce brûlage convertit une partie du vernis en carbone amorphe, ce qui réduit les éclats de la surface, et rend la surface noir mat.In order to make the varnish even darker, it is possible to burn at least part of its surface, for example by means of a heat treatment such as a gas flame, in order to effect combustion of the varnish. This burning converts part of the varnish into amorphous carbon, which reduces surface chipping, and makes the surface matt black.

Alternativement, la couche 21 peut être un tapis de nanotubes de carbone déposés directement sur le premier substrat 3 ou sur un substrat supplémentaire qui est ultérieurement solidarisé au premier substrat 3. Un tel tapis peut par exemple comporter au moins 50% massique de nanotubes de carbone, ou même au moins 60%, 70%, 80% ou 90% massique, le reste étant constitué d'autres formes de carbone (particulièrement la forme amorphe). Des procédés de dépôt sous vide, par exemple par évaporation de carbone à haute température dans un environnement de gaz noble à haute pression (ce qui représente une forme de PVD), de synthèse par ablation laser, ou de synthèse CVD, peuvent être utilisés. Les nanotubes de carbone peuvent être monofeuillets ou multifeuillets, ou un mélange des deux, et présentent typiquement un diamètre de l'ordre de quelques nanomètres.Alternatively, the layer 21 can be a carpet of carbon nanotubes deposited directly on the first substrate 3 or on an additional substrate which is subsequently secured to the first substrate 3. Such a carpet can for example comprise at least 50% by mass of carbon nanotubes. , or even at least 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% by mass, the remainder being made up of other forms of carbon (particularly the amorphous form). Vacuum deposition processes, for example by evaporation of carbon at high temperature in a noble gas environment at high pressure (which represents a form of PVD), synthesized by Laser ablation, or CVD synthesis, can be used. The carbon nanotubes can be single or multi-walled, or a mixture of the two, and typically have a diameter of the order of a few nanometers.

Si les nanotubes de carbone s'étendent principalement selon une direction perpendiculaire au plan du cadran, l'effet d'absorption de lumière est particulièrement prononcé, puisque la lumière entre dans les nanotubes et dans les interstices entre les nanotubes, d'où elle peut difficilement sortir sans être absorbée. Dans un tel cas, on peut prévoir une proportion d'au moins 20%, au moins 30% ou même 40% ou plus des nanotubes qui suivent cette direction. Une épaisseur de la couche 21 comprise entre 0.05 mm et 1 mm permet de garantir une absorption suffisante de lumière, et d'éviter que la couche 21 devienne trop épaisse.If the carbon nanotubes extend mainly in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the dial, the light absorption effect is particularly pronounced, since the light enters the nanotubes and the interstices between the nanotubes, from where it can hardly get out without being absorbed. In such a case, it is possible to provide a proportion of at least 20%, at least 30% or even 40% or more of the nanotubes which follow this direction. A thickness of the layer 21 of between 0.05 mm and 1 mm makes it possible to guarantee sufficient absorption of light, and to prevent the layer 21 from becoming too thick.

Ce tapis peut éventuellement être revêtu lui-même par une couche protectrice, tel qu'un vernis, ou un dépôt d'un autre matériau, afin d'empêcher que les nanotubes se détachent du substrat et engendrent de la poussière de carbone à l'intérieur de la pièce. Cette couche protectrice peut également être brulée comme décrit ci-dessus.This mat can optionally be coated itself with a protective layer, such as a varnish, or a deposit of another material, in order to prevent the nanotubes detaching from the substrate and generating carbon dust in the substrate. interior of the room. This protective layer can also be burnt as described above.

Le cadran ainsi construit présente par conséquent une apparence ultra-noire sur le premier substrat 3, ce qui fait un excellent contraste avec les parties du deuxième substrat 7 visibles au travers des fenêtres 5, même dans le cas d'une illumination directe très forte.The dial thus constructed therefore has an ultra-black appearance on the first substrate 3, which makes an excellent contrast with the parts of the second substrate 7 visible through the windows 5, even in the case of very strong direct illumination.

La figure 4 illustre schématiquement une variante d'un procédé de fabrication d'un cadran 1 selon l'invention. Seule une portion du cadran et de ses composants est illustrée dans ces figures, comme c'est le cas pour les figures 2 et 3.The figure 4 schematically illustrates a variant of a method of manufacturing a dial 1 according to the invention. Only a portion of the dial and its components is illustrated in these figures, as is the case for the figures 2 and 3 .

Dans une étape 101, on se munit d'un premier substrat 3, qui peut être une plaque en métal, plastique, matériau cristallin (diamant, alumine, silicium, SiN, SiC, SiO ou similaire) ou tout autre matériau approprié.In a step 101, a first substrate 3 is provided, which can be a plate made of metal, plastic, crystalline material (diamond, alumina, silicon, SiN, SiC, SiO or the like) or any other suitable material.

Dans l'étape 102, la plaque constituant le premier substrat 3 est ajourée, le cas échéant, afin de former les ouvertures 5 faisant office de fenêtres 5 destinées à former des index. Ces ouvertures 5 peuvent être créées par découpage, étampage, gravage par voie humide ou sec, ou tout autre procédé approprié. Cette étape peut être omise si le premier substrat 3 est créé au moins partiellement par fabrication additive, et si les fenêtres sont formées en tant qu'ouvertures fabriquées en même temps que le substrat 3. Par ailleurs, si le premier substrat 3 est translucide et les fenêtres sont destinées à être formées par déposition sélective de la couche 21 dans l'étape suivante, cette étape peut également être omise.In step 102, the plate constituting the first substrate 3 is perforated, where appropriate, in order to form the openings 5 acting as windows 5 intended to form indexes. These 5 openings can be created by cutting, stamping, wet or dry engraving, or any other suitable process. This step can be omitted if the first substrate 3 is created at least partially by additive manufacturing, and if the windows are formed as openings manufactured at the same time as the substrate 3. On the other hand, if the first substrate 3 is translucent and the windows are intended to be formed by selective deposition of the layer 21 in the following step, this step can also be omitted.

Dans l'étape 103, la couche 21 comprenant des nanotubes de carbone est appliquée à la surface supérieure 19 du premier substrat 3, soit directement, soit en étant formée sur une plaque intermédiaire qui est fixée au premier substrat 3. Comme mentionné ci-dessus, cette application peut être effectuée par l'intermédiaire d'un vernissage, un procédé PVD, un procédé CVD, ou similaire. Une éventuelle couche protectrice peut également être appliquée après formation de la couche 21. Dans cette étape, si le premier substrat 3 est translucide, les fenêtres 5 peuvent être formées par déposition sélective de la couche 21, comme évoqué ci-dessus.In step 103, the layer 21 comprising carbon nanotubes is applied to the upper surface 19 of the first substrate 3, either directly or by being formed on an intermediate plate which is attached to the first substrate 3. As mentioned above , this application can be carried out via varnishing, a PVD process, a CVD process, or the like. A possible protective layer can also be applied after formation of the layer 21. In this step, if the first substrate 3 is translucent, the windows 5 can be formed by selective deposition of the layer 21, as mentioned above.

Dans l'étape 104, on se munit d'un deuxième substrat 7, qui peut être réalisé dans un matériau comme pour le premier substrat 3 (voir ci-dessus). Dans la variante illustrée ici, un creux 13 a déjà été formé dans une zone du deuxième substrat 7 destinée à être en regard de l'ouverture 5. Ce creux 13 a précédemment été rempli d'un matériau luminescent 11.In step 104, a second substrate 7 is provided, which can be made of a material as for the first substrate 3 (see above). In the variant illustrated here, a hollow 13 has already been formed in a zone of the second substrate 7 intended to be opposite the opening 5. This hollow 13 has previously been filled with a luminescent material 11.

Dans les étapes 105a, 105b, les deux substrats 3, 7 sont rapprochés, et puis solidarisés l'un sur l'autre afin de former le cadran 1, par exemple par collage, soudage, vissage, serrage ou similaire.In steps 105a, 105b, the two substrates 3, 7 are brought together, and then secured to one another in order to form the dial 1, for example by gluing, welding, screwing, clamping or the like.

Plusieurs variantes de ce procédé sont possibles. Par exemple, les étapes 102 et 103 peuvent se dérouler dans un ordre opposé, c'est-à-dire que la couche 21 peut être appliquée sur la surface 19 du substrat 3 avant découpage (le cas échéant). Cependant, cette variante nécessite plus de manipulations du substrat revêtu, ce qui augmente le risque de rayures et d'autres endommagements de la surface.Several variations of this process are possible. For example, steps 102 and 103 can take place in an opposite order, that is to say that the layer 21 can be applied to the surface 19 of the substrate 3 before cutting (if necessary). However, this variant requires more handling of the coated substrate, which increases the risk of scratches and other damage to the surface.

Les modifications nécessaires pour fabriquer les autres variantes des cadrans 1 mentionnées ci-dessus sont à la portée de l'homme du métier, et ne doivent pas être décrites en détail.The modifications necessary to manufacture the other variants of the dials 1 mentioned above are within the abilities of those skilled in the art, and should not be described in detail.

Bien que l'invention ait été décrite ci-dessus en lien avec des modes de réalisation spécifiques, des variantes supplémentaires sont également envisageables sans sortir de la portée de l'invention comme définie par les revendications.Although the invention has been described above in connection with specific embodiments, additional variants are also conceivable without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (13)

  1. Dial (1) for a timepiece, comprising:
    - a first substrate (3) comprising a first surface (19) intended to be located facing a watch glass and a second surface (20) opposite to said first surface (19), said first substrate (3) further comprising at least one window (5) serving as an index;
    - at least one second substrate (7) fixed to said first substrate (3) facing said second surface (20) and associated with a light source (11; 11, 11a), said second substrate (7) comprising a zone facing said at least one window (5);
    - a tinted layer (21) located on at least a part of said first surface (19) of said first substrate (3) ;
    characterized in that said layer (21) comprises a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass, preferably at least 1% by mass, of carbon nanotubes.
  2. Dial (1) for a timepiece, comprising:
    - a first substrate (3) comprising a first surface (19) intended to be located facing a watch glass and a second surface (20) opposite to said first surface (19), said first substrate (3) further comprising at least one window (5) serving as an index;
    - at least one second substrate (7) fixed to said first substrate (3) facing said second surface (20) and associated with a light source (11; 11, 11a), said second substrate (7) comprising a zone facing said at least one window (5);
    - a tinted layer (21) located on at least a part of said first surface (19) of said first substrate (3) ;
    characterized in that said layer (21) comprises carbon nanotubes deposited directly onto said surface (19) or onto an additional substrate fixed to said surface.
  3. Dial (1) according to Claim 2, in which at least 20% of the carbon nanotubes extend essentially perpendicular to the plane of said first substrate (3) .
  4. Dial (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the light source (11; 11, 11a) is a luminescent coating deposited onto said second substrate (7) at least in said zone facing said window (5), or is a luminescent material from which said substrate (7) is at least partially formed.
  5. Dial (1) according to Claim 4, in which the light source (11; 11, 11a) comprises an electric light source.
  6. Method for manufacturing a dial (1) for a timepiece, comprising the following steps:
    - providing a first substrate (3) comprising a first surface (19) intended to be located facing a watch glass and a second surface (20) opposite to said first surface (19), at least one zone of said first substrate (3) being intended to form at least one window (5) serving as an index;
    - if appropriate, perforating said substrate (3) in order to form at least one opening (5) constituting said window;
    - applying, to at least a part of said first surface (19) of the first substrate (3), a layer (21) comprising carbon nanotubes, said layer (21) being applied as a varnish comprising at least 0.1% by mass, preferably at least 1% by mass, of carbon nanotubes;
    - providing a second substrate (7) associated with a light source (11, 11a), said second substrate (7) comprising a zone intended to face said at least one window (5);
    - fixing said second substrate to the first substrate facing said second surface (20) in order that said zone faces said at least one window (5).
  7. Method according to Claim 6, further comprising a step of burning at least part of said layer (21) in order to produce combustion of at least part of said varnish.
  8. Method for manufacturing a dial (1) for a timepiece, comprising the following steps:
    - providing a first substrate (3) comprising a first surface (19) intended to be located facing a watch glass and a second surface (20) opposite to said first surface (19), at least one zone of said first substrate (3) being intended to form at least one window (5) serving as an index;
    - if appropriate, perforating said substrate (3) in order to form at least one opening (5) constituting said window;
    - applying, to at least a part of said first surface (19) of the first substrate (3), a layer (21) comprising carbon nanotubes, by means of a deposition process;
    - providing a second substrate (7) associated with a light source (11, 11a), said second substrate (7) comprising a zone intended to face said at least one window (5);
    - fixing said second substrate to the first substrate facing said second surface (20) in order that said zone faces said at least one window (5).
  9. Method according to Claim 8, in which at least 20% of the carbon nanotubes extend essentially perpendicular to the plane of said first substrate (3) .
  10. Method according to one of Claims 6 to 9, in which the light source (11) is a luminescent coating (11) deposited onto said second substrate, or is a luminescent material from which said substrate (7) is at least partially formed.
  11. Method according to Claim 10, in which the light source (11) comprises an electric light source (11).
  12. Method according to one of Claims 6 to 11, in which said first substrate (3) is at least partially transparent, and said layer (21) is applied selectively so as to define said window (5).
  13. Timepiece comprising a dial (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 5.
EP16200687.8A 2016-11-25 2016-11-25 Dial for a timepiece Active EP3327517B1 (en)

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EP16200687.8A EP3327517B1 (en) 2016-11-25 2016-11-25 Dial for a timepiece

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Cited By (1)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3954247B1 (en) * 2020-08-11 2023-05-24 Omega SA Black component decorated with stones and method for manufacturing same

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EP3955062A1 (en) 2020-08-11 2022-02-16 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Black component and method for manufacturing the same
EP3954802A1 (en) 2020-08-11 2022-02-16 Omega SA Black component decorated with stones and method for manufacturing same

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US20110301282A1 (en) * 2010-06-03 2011-12-08 Eric Magni Black colored master batch carbon nanotube and method of manufacture thereof
CH706655A1 (en) 2012-06-28 2013-12-31 L A C Sarl Lab For Advanced Coatings Serge Bourquard The method of depositing a decorative coating and protection.
CH711141A2 (en) * 2015-05-26 2016-11-30 FEHR et Cie SA A method of manufacturing a black dial watch including carbon nanotubes, and black watch dial obtained by such a method.

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3954247B1 (en) * 2020-08-11 2023-05-24 Omega SA Black component decorated with stones and method for manufacturing same

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