Patent Publication Number: US-2020301363-A1

Title: Timepiece dial device

Description:
This application claims priority of European patent application No. EP19163858.4 filed Mar. 19, 2019, the contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     The invention relates to a timepiece dial device. The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising a dial device of this type. 
     Watches with complications, in particular chronograph watches or watches with a countdown, generally comprise a dial provided with counters which are dedicated to the display of said complications. These counters are usually in the form of appliques which can be added onto the dial, typically by gluing, such as to be able to be machined and decorated independently from the dial. An assembly solution of this type is not without disadvantages, in particular with reference to its repeatability, particularly relating to the dosing of the glue and its development over a period of time. Alternatively, these counters can be integral with the dial. However, a dial design of this type can be limiting with respect to the decorations and/or endings provided on the counters and/or on the dial. 
     Devices for mechanical assembly of a counter on a dial are known in the prior art. By way of example, patent application CH712002 discloses a solution for removable assembly of a counter on a dial. For this purpose, the dial is provided with a resilient arm which is formed on the periphery of an opening in the dial, the free end of which arm is designed to be accommodated in a hollow formed in a flank of the counter. An assembly solution of this type is perpetuated by means of a cam which can be manipulated by an operator, which cam is designed to retain said end of the resilient arm against the hollow. This design is particularly complex. In addition, the stepped form of the counter, which is necessary for the machining of the hollow, does not make it possible to assemble the counter flush with, or slightly recessed from, the upper or outer surface of the dial. 
     It is also known to assemble dial appliques by means of riveting or crimping. For this purpose, the dial appliques are generally provided with feet. By way of example, patent application EP3185086 discloses different foot geometries which are designed to facilitate the deformation of said feet during the riveting operation. 
     The objective of the invention is to provide a dial device which improves the devices known in the prior art. In particular, the invention proposes a dial device comprising an applique fitted on a dial in a manner which is repeatable, reliable and perpetual. 
     According to the invention, a dial device is defined by the following point 1. 
     1. A dial device comprising at least one applique and a dial provided with an opening for receipt of the applique, the dial comprising at least one first element for positioning and/or securing, the at least one applique comprising at least one second element for positioning and/or securing cooperating with the at least one first element, the device comprising dial-applique interface surfaces which are arranged in the thickness of the dial. 
     Different embodiments of the dial device are defined by the following points 2 to 13. 
     2. The dial device as defined in point 1, wherein the at least one first element for positioning and/or securing comprises a foot or a hole, and/or wherein the at least one second element for positioning and/or securing comprises a hole or a foot.
 
3. The dial device as defined in the preceding point, wherein the foot comprises a deformable end, in particular an end of the rivet type.
 
4. The dial device as defined in one of the preceding points, wherein the dial comprises at least one first projection from a first visible area of the dial, or wherein the applique comprises at least one second projection from a second visible area of the applique.
 
5. The dial device as defined in point 4, wherein the at least one first element for positioning and/or securing is disposed on the at least one first projection.
 
6. The dial device as defined in the preceding point, wherein the width of at least one first projection is less than 15 times, or less than 10 times, or less than 8 times the thickness of the at least one first projection.
 
7. The dial device as defined in point 5 or 6, wherein the applique comprises at least one first housing for receipt of the at least one first projection.
 
8. The dial device as defined in one of points 4 to 7, wherein the at least one second element for positioning and/or securing is disposed on the at least one second projection.
 
9. The dial device as defined in the preceding point, wherein the width of the at least one second projection is less than 15 times, or less than 10 times, or less than 8 times the thickness of the at least one second projection.
 
10. The dial device as defined in point 8 or 9, wherein the dial comprises at least one second housing for receipt of the at least one second projection.
 
11. The dial device as defined in one of points 8 to 10, wherein it comprises at least one first applique which is positioned relative to the dial according to a first orientation defined by a first angle, and a second applique which is positioned according to a second orientation defined by a second angle, the first and the second orientations being different, in particular the first and the second orientations forming an angle or having a difference of at least 10° relative to one another.
 
12. The dial device as defined in one of the preceding points, wherein the at least one first element for positioning and/or securing comprises feet which are disposed on an inner face of the dial, in particular on the dial-applique interface surface, or wherein the at least one second element for positioning and/or securing comprises feet which are disposed on an inner face of the applique, in particular on the dial-applique interface surface.
 
13. The dial device as defined in one of the preceding points, wherein the applique is arranged recessed from the non-visible surface of the dial, and/or wherein the applique is arranged recessed from the visible surface of the dial, and/or wherein the device comprises a coding means for fitting of the applique on the dial.
 
     According to the invention, a timepiece is defined by the following point 14. 
     14. A timepiece, in particular a wristwatch, comprising a device as defined in one of points 1 to 13. 
     An embodiment of the timepiece is defined by the following point 15. 
     15. The timepiece as defined in the preceding point, wherein it comprises a movement comprising a movement blank, the at least one applique being disposed between the dial and the movement blank. 
    
    
     
       The appended figures represent by way of example two embodiments of a timepiece according to the invention. 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic view from above of a first embodiment of a timepiece. 
         FIG. 2  is a view from below of a first embodiment of a dial device equipping the first embodiment of the timepiece. 
         FIG. 3  is a partial view in cross-section of the first embodiment of the dial device according to the plane III-III in  FIG. 2 , with an applique positioned but not secured. 
         FIG. 4  is a partial view in cross-section of a detail of the first embodiment of the dial device according to the plane III-III in  FIG. 2 , with the applique positioned but not secured. 
         FIG. 5  is a partial view in cross-section of a detail of the first embodiment of the dial device according to the plane III-III in  FIG. 2 , with the applique positioned and secured. 
         FIG. 6  is a view in perspective of an applique of the first embodiment of the dial device. 
         FIG. 7  is a view in perspective of a dial of the first embodiment of the dial device. 
         FIG. 8  is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a timepiece, with an applique represented in perspective. 
         FIG. 9  is another view in perspective of the applique represented in  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a view in perspective of a dial of the second embodiment of the timepiece. 
         FIG. 11  is another view in cross-section of the dial of the second embodiment of the timepiece. 
         FIG. 12  is a partial view in perspective of a detail of the second embodiment of the dial device, with the applique positioned but not secured. 
         FIG. 13  is a partial view in cross-section of a detail of the second embodiment of the dial device, with the applique positioned and secured. 
     
    
    
     A first embodiment of a timepiece  200  according to the invention is described hereinafter with reference to  FIGS. 1 to 7 . 
     The timepiece  200  is for example a wristwatch. The timepiece preferably comprises a watch case, a timepiece movement  150  and a first embodiment of a dial device  100 . The timepiece movement and the dial device are fitted secured in the watch case. In particular, the movement  150  comprises a movement blank  3 . 
     The timepiece movement can be an electronic movement or mechanical movement, in particular an automatic movement. 
     The dial device  100  comprises at least one applique  1  and a dial  2  provided with an opening  24  for receipt of the applique. The dial comprises at least one first element  20   a  for positioning and/or securing. The at least one applique comprises at least one second element  10   a ,  10   b  for positioning and/or securing which cooperates with the at least one first element. By means of this cooperation, the first and second elements for positioning and/or securing make it possible to position and/or secure the applique on the dial. The device comprises dial-applique interface surfaces  12 ,  22  which are arranged in the thickness of the dial e 2 . 
     In the first embodiment, the two elements for positioning and/or securing (or guiding and/or mechanical securing) comprise openings or holes  10   a . All or part of these second elements are preferably disposed on lobes or projections or lugs  10  formed on the periphery of the applique  1 . Advantageously, these second elements are disposed on projections or lugs  10  formed on the periphery of the applique  1 . These openings  10   a  are designed to cooperate with the first elements for positioning and/or securing (or guiding and/or mechanical securing). These first elements comprise feet  20   a . These feet are disposed on an inner surface  22  of the dial  2 . 
     Preferably, these projections  10  are in the form of lobes  10  which project towards the outside of the applique  1  on a plane which is parallel or substantially parallel to an outer surface  13  of said applique, which surface can appear within the opening  24  for receipt of the applique. More particularly, these projections  10  are preferably in the form of lobes  10  extending radially relative to an axis A 1  which is perpendicular to the outer surface  13  of the applique, and in particular relative to an axis A 1  centered on the applique. Preferably, when the wearer of the timepiece looks at the dial fitted in the timepiece, the lobes  10  which project on the outside of the opening  24  for receipt of the applique, and are disposed on an inner surface of the dial, are not visible to the wearer of the timepiece. 
     Preferably, the projections  10  are designed to be accommodated in openings or housings  20  in the dial which are contiguous to the through opening  24  in the dial which is designed to show the outer surface  13  of the applique  1  at the same level, or substantially at the same level, as an outer surface  23  of the dial  2 . 
     The openings  20  are preferably blind openings, such that the projections  10  cannot be seen by the wearer looking at the dial device assembled in the timepiece. 
     These openings  20  are formed on an inner surface  21  of the dial, which surface is designed to come into contact with a movement blank  3  or in the vicinity of a movement blank  3  of the timepiece movement  150 . 
     The base of each of the openings  20  preferably defines a single surface  22  on which the feet  20   a  are disposed. Preferably, these feet  20   a  are integral with the dial from the surface  22 . Alternatively, these feet  20   a  can be added onto the dial, for example by driving, brazing or welding. 
     According to a preferred form of execution of the first embodiment, each foot  20   a  can be formed such as to pass through an opening  10   a  from one side to another, and is in the form of a rivet  20   a , the free end  20   b  of which is designed to be deformed plastically against a projection  10 , in particular against a chamfer  10   b  of the opening  10   a  in a projection  10 . For this purpose, the rivet  20   a  can for example comprise an opening  20   c  such as to minimize the thickness of material forming the end  20   b  of the rivet, and/or such as to introduce a tool permitting the deformation of the end  20   b  of the rivet. It also makes it possible to prevent or to limit as far as possible the deformations of the dial during the assembly of the applique. “Rivet” in this case means any shaft, a free end of which is plastically deformable, in order to form a head making it possible to retain at least one element, in this case an applique, on the shaft. 
     Thus, in cooperation with an opening  10   a , each rivet  20   a  defines an element for guiding of the applique  1  relative to the dial  2 , which depends on the radial gap between the rivet  20   a  and the opening  10   a . In cooperation with an opening  10   a , each rivet  20   a  also defines an element for securing of the applique  1  on the dial  2  by means of plastic deformation of the end  20   b  against a chamfer  10   b  of the opening  10   a . Alternatively, it would be possible to dissociate the guiding function that of securing, for example by providing feet  20   a , in particular pins, which are dedicated specifically to the guiding function, as well as feet  20   a , in particular rivets, which are dedicated specifically to the securing function. 
     In addition, the surface  22  of the dial  2  defines a surface for support against a surface  12  of the projection  10  of the applique  1 . This surface  12  can be distinct from the surface  13  of the applique  1 , which can appear within the through opening  24  in the dial. In particular, the surfaces  12  and  13  can be formed on distinct planes, in particular planes which are parallel and distant. Alternatively, the surfaces  12  and  13  can form a single surface, in particular a single plane, or substantially a single plane. 
     Preferably, dial-applique interface surfaces  12  and  22  are planes. 
     Preferably, the distance d 2  which separates the surfaces  21  and  22  of the dial, i.e. the depth of the openings  20 , is greater than the distance d 1  which separates the surfaces  11  and  12  of the applique, the surfaces  11  and  12  being respectively inner and outer surfaces of the applique at a projection  10 . Thus, the distance d 1  constitutes the thickness of the projections. Since the distance d 2  is preferably greater than the distance d 1 , the applique is embedded in the thickness of the dial. Also advantageously, it is possible to embed the applique in the thickness of the dial, such that no riveting extends from the surface  21  of the dial, which can constitute a support surface for the movement blank  3  of the timepiece movement. The thickness d 1  of the applique is preferably disposed in the thickness e 2  of the dial which separates the inner  21  and outer  23  surfaces of the dial. 
     In this first embodiment, each of the projections  10  is advantageously disposed between a support surface  22  of the dial and the movement blank  3  of the timepiece movement, these projections being “sandwiched”. In other words, the at least one applique can be disposed between the dial and the movement blank. Thus, the applique  1  can remain in place, even in the case of extreme impacts, and independently of the state of the elements  20   a , in particular riveting formed by the rivets  20   a . Positioning of this type perpetuates the positioning of the applique relative to the dial, in particular the angular positioning of the applique relative to the dial. In fact, even if the connection between the applique and the dial breaks, the applique can be retained in place relative to the dial. 
     Preferably, the elements  10   a , in particular the openings  10   a  of the applique  1 , are all identical. 
     Also preferably, the projections  10  of the applique  1  are all identical. 
     The same preferably applies concerning the elements  20   a  of the dial  2 , as well as the openings  20  in the dial  2 . 
     In addition, the projections  10  and the elements  10   a  are preferably evenly distributed relative to an axis A 1  which is centered on the applique  1 . Thus, the applique does not need to be indexed relative to the dial during its assembly. A form of this type is particularly advantageous if the applique is marked, in particular pad-printed, only after assembly on the dial, for example for adding of a limb  14  on the outer surface  13  of the applique  1 . 
     A limb of this type can advantageously be designed to cooperate with an indicator unit, which is not represented in the figures, and is designed to be accommodated in a through opening  15  in the applique, in particular a central opening  15 . 
     Alternatively, a projection  10  or an opening  10   a  could constitute a coding means, such as to define a univocal positioning of the applique on the dial. For this purpose, the applique  1  can comprise projections  10  and/or openings  10   a  with different geometries. A form of this type is particularly advantageous if the surface  13  of the applique is already marked, in particular pad-printed, before it is fitted on the dial. The gap between at least one projection  10  or one opening  10   a  and at least one opening  20  or one foot  20   a  can thus be minimized, such as to assist a univocal positioning of the applique  1  on the dial  2 . 
     In addition, the openings  20  have a format which is substantially equivalent to that of the projections  10 , and have a geometry which is preferably complementary to that of the projections  10 . Thus, the projections  10  can form alternative or complementary means for positioning of the applique on the dial. 
     Preferably, the projections  10  have a width  11  (measured parallel to the surface  11  or  12 ) which is less than 15 times the distance d 1 , or less than 10 times the distance d 1 , or less than 8 times the distance d 1 . 
     Also preferably, the openings  20  have a width  12  (measured parallel to the surface  21  or  22 ) which is less than 15 times the distance d 2 , or less than 10 times the distance d 2 , or less than 8 times the distance d 2 . 
     “Width” means the greatest distance (measured orthoradially relative to the axis A 1  of the applique, or to an axis A 24  of the opening  24  in the dial) separating two opposite walls of a projection  10 , or of an opening  20  extending radially relative to the axis A 1  of the applique, or to the axis A 24  of the opening  24  in the dial. 
     In the case of an applique with a circular or substantially circular form, the point of a projection furthest from the axis A 1  can be disposed on a circle with a radius r 10 , r 10  being less than 1.5 times the radius r 1  of the circle corresponding, or corresponding substantially, to the geometry of the main body of the applique, or less than 1.3 times the radius r 1 , or less than 1.2 times the radius r 1 . “Main body” means the structure from which the projections  10  project towards the outside of the applique  1 , and/or the structure, the perimeter of which is defined by that of the surface  13  of the applique which is visible to the wearer of the watch when the applique is assembled on the dial in the timepiece. In addition, a point of an end of an opening  20  can be disposed on a circle with a radius r 20  and centered on the axis A 24 , r 20  being less than 1.5 times the radius r 2  of the circle constituting a base from which the openings  20  are formed, or less than 1.3 times the radius r 2 , or less than 1.2 times the radius r 2 . 
     Once the applique  1  is assembled on the dial  2 , the axes A 1  and A 24  are preferably merged. 
     In this first embodiment, the applique comprises three projections  10 . It will be appreciated that the applique can comprise as many projections  10  as necessary, in particular in relation to the expected hold of the applique  1  on the dial  2 . 
     Preferably, the outer surface  13  of the applique comprises decoration  16  formed by guilloché work or planing or snailing, which is different from that of the dial  2 . By way of example, part of the surface  13  of the applique  1  illustrated in  FIG. 6  comprises circular guilloché work  16 . 
     It will be appreciated that the dial  2  can comprise a plurality of appliques. 
     Preferably, if the dial device comprises at least one first applique  1   a  positioned relative to the dial according to a first orientation a, and a second applique  1   b  positioned according to a second orientation  13 , the first and the second orientations are different, in particular the first and the second orientations form an angle, in particular an angle with a value of at least 10°, relative to one another. The orientation of an applique can be defined as the smallest angle formed by a reference straight line which is located on the plane of the dial, and a straight line passing via the axis of the applique and via a projection of the applique, or by a second element  10   a  for positioning and/or securing of the applique. 
     By way of example,  FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate a dial device  100  comprising three appliques  1   a ,  1   b ,  1   c  with the same geometry, the projections  10  of which are evenly distributed relative to the respective axes A 1   a , A 1   b , A 1   c . In order to make these three appliques cohabit in a confined space around a central axis A 2  of the dial, whilst maintaining an adequate dial thickness, the arrangements of the projections  10  and of the openings  20  can vary around the axes A 1 , A 24  according to the location of the appliques on the dial. For example,  FIG. 2  illustrates a first applique  1   a , a projection  10  of which forms a first angle α relative to a horizontal straight line x passing via the axis A 1   a  of said applique  1   a , a second applique  1   b , a projection  10  of which forms a second angle β relative to the horizontal straight line x passing via the axis A 1   b  of said applique  1   b , as well as a third applique  1   c , a projection  10  of which forms a third angle γ relative to a horizontal straight line x′ passing via the axis A 1   c  of said applique  1   c , the oriented angles α, β, γ being different, and the straight lines x and x′ being parallel. Thus, the openings  20  do not intersect, and are far apart enough from one another to provide a dial  2  with an adequate thickness in each of these locations, in particular around a central opening  25  in the dial. 
     Preferably, the appliques  1   a ,  1   b ,  1   c  each comprise the same number of projections, in particular three projections. It will be appreciated that these appliques can comprise as many projections  10  as necessary. 
     Alternatively, it will be appreciated that the projections  10  of the applique  1  can be in the form of projections  10  oriented towards the inside of the applique  1 , in particular towards a central opening in the applique  1 , on a plane which is parallel, or substantially parallel, to the outer surface  13  of said applique which can appear within the opening  24  for receipt of the applique. In this case, the applique can be in the form of an annular component, the central opening of which is concealed by the dial or a part of the dial once the applique is assembled. Irrespective of the variant embodiment, the at least one second element for positioning and/or securing can be disposed on at least one projection  10  extending projecting from a visible area Z of the applique (delimited by a circle C in  FIG. 6 ), and in particular an area visible to the wearer of the timepiece. These projections are preferably concealed by the dial once the applique is assembled on the dial. 
     A second embodiment of a timepiece  200 ′ according to the invention is described hereinafter with reference to  FIGS. 8 to 13 . 
     The timepiece  200 ′ is for example a wristwatch. The timepiece preferably comprises a watch case, a timepiece movement  150 ′ and a second embodiment of a dial device  100 ′. The timepiece movement and the dial device are fitted secured in the watch case. 
     The timepiece movement can be an electronic movement or a mechanical movement, in particular an automatic movement. 
     The dial device  100 ′ comprises at least one applique  1 ′ and a dial  2 ′ provided with an opening  24 ′ for receipt of the applique. The dial comprises at least one first element  20   a ′,  20   b ′ for positioning and/or securing. The at least one applique comprises at least one second element  10   a ′ for positioning and/or securing which cooperates with the at least one first element. By means of this cooperation, the first and second elements for positioning and/or securing make it possible to position and secure the applique on the dial. The device comprises dial-applique interface surfaces  12 ′,  22 ′ which are arranged in the thickness of the dial e 2 ′. 
     In the second embodiment, the first elements for positioning and/or securing (or guiding and/or mechanical securing) comprise openings  20   a ′. All or part of the first elements for positioning and/or securing are preferably disposed on projections  20 ′ or lugs. Advantageously, the first elements for positioning and/or securing are preferably disposed on projections  20 ′ or lugs. These projections are preferably formed on the periphery of a through opening  24 ′ in the dial  2 ′. The opening  24 ′ in the dial  2 ′ is designed to receive the applique  1 ′. These openings  20   a ′ are designed to cooperate with the second elements for positioning and/or securing (or for guiding and/or mechanical securing). These second elements comprise feet  10   a ′. These feet are disposed on an inner surface of the applique  1 ′, on the periphery of said applique  1 ′. 
     Similarly to the projections  10  disclosed previously, preferably, the projections  20 ′ are in the form of lobes or lugs or projections  20 ′ which are oriented towards the inside of the dial  2 ′, i.e. projecting from the inside of the opening  24 ′ for receipt of the applique, notably on a plane which is parallel or substantially parallel to a surface  21 ′ and/or  23 ′ of the dial. More particularly, these projections  20 ′ are preferably in the form of lobes  20 ′ extending radially relative to an axis A 24 ′ which is perpendicular to the surfaces  21 ′ and  23 ′ of the dial. Preferably, when the wearer of the timepiece looks at the dial fitted in the timepiece, the lobes  20 ′ which project in the inside of the opening  24  for receipt of the applique are preferably hided by the applique and are not visible to the wearer of the timepiece. Preferably, the projections are not visible from the outer side of the dial, or are not visible to the wearer of the timepiece. 
     The projections  20 ′ are designed to be accommodated in openings or housings  10 ′ in the applique. Thus, preferably, an outer surface  13 ′ of the applique  1 ′ can appear at the same level, or substantially at the same level, as an outer surface  23 ′ of the dial  2 ′. 
     The openings  10 ′ are preferably blind openings, such that the projections  20 ′ cannot be seen by the wearer looking at the dial device assembled in the timepiece. 
     This second embodiment is distinguished from the first embodiment by the fact that the applique is assembled from the outer surface  23 ′ of the dial  2 ′, such as to accommodate an outer surface  13 ′ of the applique  1 ′ substantially at the same level as, or recessed from, this outer surface of the dial  23 ′. This second embodiment is particularly advantageous for permitting the assembly of an applique on a paved dial, which requires a thickness of material sufficient to permit crimping of stones on said dial, and for which the formation of openings  20  according to the first embodiment from an inner surface of the dial is not possible in view of the thickness of material required for the crimping of stones on an outer surface of said dial. Thus, advantageously, the elements for guiding and/or mechanical securing  20   a ′ are formed in an area of the dial which is not crimped, since it is designed to receive an applique, and is made not visible after assembly of said applique. 
     In the manner of the projections  10  of the first embodiment, the projections  20 ′ are preferably in the form of lobes projecting towards the inside of the opening  24 ′ in the dial, and are designed to be accommodated in openings  10 ′ in the applique  1 ′. These openings  10 ′ have a format which is substantially equivalent to that of the projections  20 ′, and have a geometry which is preferably complementary to that of the projections  20 ′. Thus, the projections  20 ′ can form alternative or complementary means for positioning of the applique on the dial. Preferably, the format of the openings  10 ′ is minimized, such as to maximize the extent of the inner surface  11 ′ of the applique for which the applique  1 ′ has a maximum thickness. Thus, the risks of deformation of the applique  1 ′ during its securing, in particular by riveting, are greatly minimized. 
     The base of each of the openings  10 ′ preferably defines a single surface  12 ′ on which the feet  10   a ′ are disposed. Preferably, these feet  10   a ′ are integral with the applique  1 ′ from the surface  12 ′. Alternatively, these feet  10   a ′ can be added onto the applique, for example by driving, brazing or welding. 
     According to a preferred form of the second embodiment, each foot  10   a ′ is formed such as to pass through an opening  20   a ′ from one side to the other, and is in the form of a rivet  10   a ′, the free end  10   b ′ of which is designed to be deformed plastically against a projection  20 ′, in particular against a chamfer  20   b ′ of the opening  20   a ′ in a projection  20 ′. For this purpose, the rivet  10   a ′ can for example comprise an opening  10   c ′, such as to minimize the thickness of material forming the end  10   b ′ of the rivet, and/or such as to introduce a tool permitting the deformation of the end  10   b ′ of the rivet. It also makes it possible to avoid or limit as far as possible the deformations of the dial during the assembly of the applique. “Rivet” in this case means any shaft, a free end of which is plastically deformable in order to form a head making it possible to retain at least one element, in this case a dial, on the shaft. 
     Thus, in cooperation with an opening  20   a ′, each rivet  10   a ′ defines an element for guiding the applique  1 ′ relative to the dial  2 ′, which depends on the radial gap between the rivet  10   a ′ and the opening  20   a ′. In cooperation with an opening  20   a ′, each rivet  10   a ′ also defines an element for securing the applique  1 ′ on the dial  2 ′, by plastic deformation of the end  10   b ′ against a chamfer  20   b ′ of the opening  20   a ′. Alternatively, it would be possible to dissociate the function of guiding from that of securing, for example by providing feet  10   a ′, in particular pins, which are dedicated specifically to the guiding function, as well as feet  10   a ′, in particular rivets, which are dedicated specifically to the securing function. 
     In addition, the surface  12 ′ of the applique  1 ′ defines a support surface of a surface  22 ′ of a projection  20 ′ of the dial  2 ′. This surface  12 ′ is preferably distinct from the inner surface  11 ′ of the applique  1 ′. In particular, the surfaces  12 ′ and  11 ′ can be formed on distinct planes, in particular on parallel and distant planes. 
     Preferably, the dial-applique interface surfaces  12 ′ and  22 ′ are planes. 
     Preferably, the distance d 2 ′ which separates the inner surface  21 ′ of the dial and the surface  22 ′ of the projection  20 ′ of the dial, i.e. the thickness of the projections  20 ′, the surfaces  21 ′ and  22 ′ being respectively the inner and outer surfaces of the dial at a projection  10 , is greater than the distance d 1 ′ which separates the surfaces  11 ′ and  12 ′ of the applique  1 ′, i.e. greater than the depth of the openings  10 ′. Thus, the applique is embedded in the thickness of the dial. Also advantageously, it is possible to embed the applique in the thickness of the dial, such that no riveting extends from the surface  21 ′ of the dial, which can constitute a support surface for a movement blank  3 ′ of the timepiece movement  150 ′. Also preferably, the thickness of the applique (measured between the surfaces  11 ′ and  13 ′) is preferably disposed in the thickness e 2 ′ of the dial which separates the inner  21 ′ and outer  23 ′ surfaces of the dial. 
     Preferably, the elements  20   a ′, in particular the openings  20   a ′ in the dial  2 ′ are all identical. 
     Also preferably, the projections  20 ′ of the dial  2 ′ are all identical. 
     The same preferably applies to the elements  10   a ′ of the applique  1 ′, in particular the feet  10   a ′, as well as to the openings  10 ′ in the applique. 
     In addition, the projections  20 ′ and the elements  20   a ′ are preferably evenly distributed relative to an axis A 24 ′ which is centered on the opening  24 ′ in the dial  2 . Thus, the applique does not need to be indexed relative to the dial when it is assembled. A form of this type is particularly advantageous if the applique is marked, in particular pad-printed, only after assembly on the dial, for example for adding of a limb  14 ′ on the upper surface  13 ′ of the applique  1 ′. 
     A limb of this type can advantageously be provided in order to cooperate with an indicator unit, which is not represented in the figures, and is designed to be accommodated in a through opening  15 ′ in the applique, in particular a central opening  15 ′. 
     Alternatively, a projection  20 ′ or an opening  20   a ′ could constitute a coding means, such as to define a univocal positioning of the applique on the dial. For this purpose, the dial  2 ′ can comprise projections  20 ′ and/or openings  20   a ′ with different geometries. A form of this type is particularly advantageous if the surface  13 ′ of the applique is already marked, in particular pad-printed, before it is fitted on the dial. The gap between at least one projection  20 ′ or an opening  20   a ′ and at least one opening  10 ′ or a foot  10   a ′ can thus be minimized, such as to assist a univocal positioning of the applique  1 ′ on the dial  2 ′. 
     In addition, the openings  10 ′ have a format which is substantially equivalent to that of the projections  20 ′, and have a geometry which is preferably complementary to that of the projections  10 ′. 
     Preferably, the projections  20 ′ have a width  12 ′ (measured parallel to the surface  21 ′ or  22 ′) which is less than 15 times the distance d 2 ′, or less than 10 times the distance d 2 ′, or less than 8 times the distance d 2 ′. 
     Also preferably, the openings  10 ′ have a width  11 ′ (measured parallel to the surface  11 ′ or  12 ′) which is less than 15 times the distance d 1 ′, or less than 10 times the distance d 1 ′, or less than 8 times the distance d 1 ′. 
     “Width” means the greatest distance (measured orthoradially relative to the axis A 24 ′ of the opening  24  in the dial or to the axis A 1 ′ of the applique) separating two opposite walls of an opening  10 ′ or of a projection  20 ′ extending radially relative to the axis A 1 ′ of the applique or to the axis A 24 ′ of the opening  24  in the dial. 
     In the case of a circular applique, the radius r 1 ′ of the applique  1 ′ is substantially equal to the radius r 2 ′ defined by the support surface  22 ′ of the dial  2 ′. 
     In the manner of the first embodiment, once the applique  1 ′ is assembled on the dial  2 ′, the axes A 1 ′ and A 24 ′ are preferably merged. 
     In this second embodiment, the opening in the dial  24 ′ comprises four projections  20 ′. It will be appreciated that said opening  24 ′ can comprise as many projections  20 ′ as necessary, in particular in relation to the expected hold of the applique  1 ′ on the dial  2 ′. 
     Preferably, the upper surface  13 ′ of the applique  1 ′ comprises decoration  16 ′ which is produced by means of guilloché work or planing or snailing, which is different from that of the dial  2 ′. By way of example, part of the upper surface  13 ′ of the applique  1 ′ illustrated in  FIG. 8  comprises circular guilloché work  16 ′. 
     Alternatively, the projections  20 ′ of the dial  2 ′ can project towards the outside of an opening  24 ′ which is designed to receive an applique  1 ′. In this case, the applique  1 ′ can be in the form of an annular component. Thus, the at least one first element for positioning and/or securing can be disposed on at least one projection  20 ′ extending projecting from an outer periphery of an opening  24 ′ in the dial, or from an inner periphery of an opening  24 ′ in the dial, i.e. extending projecting from a visible area Z′ of the dial (delimited by a circle C′ in  FIG. 10 ), in particular an area visible to the wearer of the timepiece. These projections are preferably concealed by the applique, once the applique is assembled on the dial. 
     Irrespective of the embodiment or the variant, the dial device can have more than one applique added and secured on the dial. It can however comprise any other number of appliques, in particular one or two or three or four or five appliques. In this case, the different appliques can be identical or similar or different. In the embodiment in  FIGS. 1 to 7 , the device comprises three appliques. 
     Irrespective of the embodiment or the variant, the concept of an applique is to be considered in the broadest sense. Thus, an applique  1  can act as a counter or indicator designed to indicate a time indication or derivative of the time in cooperation with an accessory indicator unit, in particular a hand. More particularly, the applique  1  can comprise a limb which is designed to cooperate with an indicator unit, in particular a hand. Alternatively, the applique can be exclusively decorative. For example, it can constitute the base of a pattern decorated by means of a through cut provided in the dial. 
     Irrespective of the embodiment or the variant, the appliques can have circular forms. They can also have any other form. 
     Irrespective of the embodiment or the variant, the applique, i.e. the inner surface  11 ,  11 ′ of the applique, is preferably arranged recessed from the inner surface  21 ,  21 ′ (which is not visible) of the dial. 
     Irrespective of the embodiment or the variant, the applique, i.e. the outer surface  13 ,  13 ′ of the applique, is preferably arranged recessed from the outer surface  23 ,  23 ′ (which is visible) of the dial. Alternatively, the outer surface  13 ,  13 ′ of the applique can be flush with the outer surface  23 ,  23 ′ (which is visible) of the dial. Also alternatively, the outer surface  13 ,  13 ′ of the applique can project relative to the outer surface  23 ,  23 ′ (which is visible) of the dial. 
     As previously seen, according to the embodiment, the dial can comprise at least one first projection  20 ′ from the first visible area Z′ of the dial, or the applique can comprise at least one second projection  10  from a second visible area Z of the applique. Irrespective of the embodiment or the variant, one or a plurality of projections can constitute an element for complementary or alternative positioning of the applique on the dial. 
     Alternatively to the embodiments represented, the securing elements (in particular the feet or the openings) are not necessarily situated on these projections. These projections can have a function of blocking the applique in rotation relative to the dial. These projections can also be provided on the applique, and interposed between the dial and another element (such as a movement blank element) in order to reinforce the hold of the securing of the applique on the dial, and in particular to reinforce the resistance to impacts. 
     Irrespective of the embodiment or the variant, one or a plurality of projections can be provided with securing elements (such as feet and/or openings), and one or a plurality of projections can be without a securing element. 
     The solutions according to the invention make it possible to provide a repeatable and perpetual assembly of an applique, and in particular a counter, on a dial, implementing elements for guiding and/or mechanical securing which are disposed, according to the embodiment, on projections formed on the periphery of the applique or on the periphery of an opening in the dial, which opening is designed to receive the applique. More particularly, these elements for guiding and/or securing are in the form of openings which are designed to cooperate with complementary elements, such as feet forming pins or rivets, disposed, according to the embodiment of the assembly solution, on the dial or on the applique. 
     The first embodiment is particularly advantageous in relation to the resistance to impacts of the applique. 
     The second embodiment has the advantage of proposing a solution for mechanical assembly of an applique on a dial which is paved, and in particular integrally paved. 
     Throughout this document, “outer surface” means a surface of a timepiece component which is designed for an orientation towards the outside of a timepiece, in particular including a surface which is directly visible to an observer of the timepiece. An outer surface of a component which is in the watch case is oriented such that a half-line which is normal to this surface, and starts from this surface without passing through the component, passes through the glass of the timepiece. 
     Throughout this document, “inner surface” means a surface of a timepiece component which is designed for an orientation towards the inside of a timepiece, in particular including a surface which is not visible to an observer of the timepiece. An inner surface of a component which is in the watch case is oriented such that a half-line which is normal to this surface, and starts from this surface without passing through the component, passes through the base of the timepiece. 
     In this whole document, the meaning of “lobe” or “lug” does not cover a “dial foot”. Indeed, a dial foot extends perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the main dial surface. 
     As previously explained, in the various embodiments, the dial-applique interface surfaces  12 ,  22 ;  12 ′,  22 ′ are arranged in the thickness of the dial, i.e. between a plane on which the outer surface of the dial lies and a plane on which the inner surface of the dial lies. The interface surfaces are advantageously plane. Alternatively, the interface surfaces may be (slightly) conical.