Abstract:
A flexible band with clip-on watch module includes a band, a watch movement, a display, a surrounding case and an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism has several embodiments. These include a channel beneath the case comprised of two pair of opposed prongs; an elastic member passed beneath the band and the case and secured to ridges on the top surface of the case; an underband platform suspended from the case with retaining members at a side edge; a hingedly attached retaining clip that encloses the band and snaps onto a side of the case; one or more lateral slots in a side edge of the case into which the band is inserted; and a curved support platform under the watch module with retaining notches at either end for retention of a folded and flattened band. The case, recess, channel and attachment mechanism may be curved to better fit the wrist.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION  
       [0001]     The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/293,472, filed Dec. 2, 2005 and currently pending. 
     
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION  
       [0002]     The invention pertains to watches. More particularly, the invention relates to modular watches designed to attach to continuous flexible bands.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0003]     With seven Tour de France victories, the story of Lance Armstrong and his battle with cancer has become a popular cause. Those supporting this cause do so by purchasing and wearing yellow plastic wrist bracelets. A charitable donation is made as a portion of the purchase price. Tens of millions of these bracelets have been sold and bracelets of other colors have been sold in association with other charitable causes. The present invention relates to a watch module designed to attach to these plastic wrist bracelets. Many designs have been developed for attaching a watch to a watch band, however, there are very few designs for attachment of a watch to a continuous flexible band, i.e., one without a closure means.  
         [0004]     U.S. Pat. No. 6,130,861, issued to Della Felice, discloses a watch case with a retaining means which is hinged at one end to the case by a hinge extending transversely with respect to the line of the strap, at a limited distance from the rear surface of the case in order to allow the strap to be passed through. The retaining means can be closed against the case in order to grip the strap (which is thus easy to replace) and is positionable at a limited angle with respect to the case, such that it can be stood on a surface like a little table-top clock.  
         [0005]     U.S. Pat. No. 5,491,984, issued to Loch is directed to a ring-shaped member for hand wear. The ring-shaped member is to be worn on the hand of the individual and is band type structure having first and second ends for closure. In one embodiment of the invention a time piece may be attached to the ring shaped member.  
         [0006]     U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0022554, by Davidson et al. discloses a bracelet with interchangeable adornments for storing medications, hygiene products, or food. The bracelet with interchangeable adornments has a strap and a container. The container attaches to the strap via a fastening means. Furthermore, the container has a base and a lid. The lid is coupled to the base via a movable member. The movable member prevents the lid from detaching from the base while enabling the lid to open and close. The base is hollow and is generally geometric in shape or generally represents an object that is flower-like, person-like, or animal-like.  
         [0007]     U.S. Pat. No. 2,541,432, issued to Muehlbauer describes a compass attachment for wristwatch straps and bands. The compass is attached to the band by means of a clip.  
         [0008]     U.S. Pat. No. 3,739,740, issued to Fromer is directed to a wrist mounted pill box. A watch is attached to a band by means of flexible extensions which are secured to a lower container portion so that they can be bent under the wrist band or strap.  
         [0009]     U.S. Pat. No. 4,326,280, issued to Perry, Jr. describes a device for convenient mounting of a wrist watch on a belt. The watch is mounted within a case having a belt bracket and a hinged protective cover. The watch is hingedly mounted on one of its conventional strap pins to the inside of the protective cover. Both hinged mountings are spring biased to urge the protective cover and watch to a normal closed position. The other conventional strap pin of the watch retains a strap which hangs freely from the case, to provide a convenient handle to open the case and pull the watch into view.  
         [0010]     U.S. Pat. No. 4,862,436, issued to Harilela describes a watch and strap combination in which the strap is essentially constituted by an elongate rectangular strip of paper material of weight between 150 and 350 g/m.sup.2, carrying printed matter under an optional PVC lamination. Means for fastening together the strap ends may include a double-sided adhesive patch or a touch-and-close fastener.  
         [0011]     U.S. Pat. No. 3,797,148, issued to Ivengsberg et al. is directed to an arrangement in or relating to a year calendar. The calendar is attached to a band by means of securing clips which are bent inwardly at the lower surface of the strap.  
         [0012]     U.S. Pat. No. 4,542,630, issued to Nanasi discloses a flexible, elongated band that has a removable ornament thereon that can be intentionally removed from the band but cannot be accidentally removed.  
         [0013]     It is an objective of the present invention to provide a mechanism for attaching a watch to a flexible continuous wrist band. It is a further objective to provide a mechanism that will provide a secure attachment while permitting relatively easy removal of the watch from the band. It is a still further objective of the invention to provide an attachment mechanism that can be used with watches of different sizes. Finally, it is an objective to provide a watch and band combination based upon flexible, continuous bands that is simple and inexpensive to produce and durable in nature.  
         [0014]     While some of the objectives of the present invention are disclosed in the prior art, none of the inventions found include all of the requirements identified.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0015]     The present invention addresses all of the deficiencies of prior art clip-on watch inventions and satisfies all of the objectives described above.  
         [0016]     (1) A flexible band with clip-on watch can be fabricated from the following components. At least one flexible, continuous band is provided. The band has a first predetermined width and a first predetermined thickness, is formed of resilient material and is sized and shaped to fit stretchably over a wearer&#39;s hand and loosely about the wearer&#39;s wrist. A watch module is provided. The watch module includes a time-keeping movement, a display, a surrounding case, and an attachment mechanism. The case has an upper surface and a lower surface. The attachment mechanism removably joins the watch module to the band.  
         [0017]     (2) In a variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism further includes first and second retaining clips. Each of the clips extends outwardly from the surrounding case along a diameter of the watch module in opposite directions. Each of the clips has a channel through it. The channel has an upper wall, a lower wall and is sized and shaped to fit slidably about the band. The lower wall includes first and second opposing prongs. The prongs are located at right angles to the diameter and extend inwardly from outer edges of the clips toward each other. The prongs are spaced apart sufficiently to permit an edge of the band to pass between them. When the edge of the band is passed between each of the sets of prongs and turned to lie flat against the lower surface of the surrounding case, the band will be removably attached to the watch module.  
         [0018]     (3) In another variant, the watch module further includes a bottom plate. The bottom plate is attached to the lower surface of the surrounding case and forms the upper wall of the channel. The lower wall includes the first and second opposing prongs descending from side edges of the bottom plate.  
         [0019]     (4) In still another variant, the bottom plate is curved to permit the watch module to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0020]     (5) In yet another variant, the upper wall of the channel is recessed into the lower surface of the surrounding case, thereby permitting the band to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0021]     (6) In a further variant, the watch module includes an analog watch movement.  
         [0022]     (7) In still a further variant, the watch module includes a digital watch movement.  
         [0023]     (8) In yet a further variant, the watch module is waterproof.  
         [0024]     (9) In a variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism further includes at least one first side wall. The first side wall is attached at a right angle to the lower surface of the surrounding case and descends from it for a first predetermined distance. At least one underband plate is provided. The plate is attached at a right angle at a proximate edge to a lower edge of the first side wall. The plate has a width at least equal to the first predetermined width and is spaced from the lower surface by at least the first predetermined thickness. At least one second side wall is provided. The second side wall is attached at a right angle at a distal edge of the underband plate and ascends toward the lower surface for at least the first predetermined distance. At least one retaining tab is provided. The retaining tab is attached at a right angle at an upper edge of the second side wall and extends inwardly over the underband plate for a second predetermined distance. When the band is inserted between the lower surface of the surrounding case and the underband plate it will be located against the first side wall and when the band is then pushed under the retaining tab it will be located between the first side wall and the second side wall, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the band.  
         [0025]     (10) In another variant, the underband plate is curved to permit the watch module to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0026]     (11) In still another variant, the lower surface of the surrounding case is recessed, thereby providing a space for the band and permitting the watch module to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0027]     (12) In yet another variant, the attachment mechanism further includes first and second retaining means. The retaining means extend upwardly from the upper surface of the surrounding case. A continuous loop is provided. The loop is formed of resilient material and is sized and shaped to extend from an inner edge of the first retaining means, beneath the lower surface of the watch module and the continuous band, and over an inner edge of the second retaining means, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the band.  
         [0028]     (13) In a further variant, the attachment mechanism further includes a recess. The recess is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case, is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band and permits the watch module to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0029]     (14) In still a further variant, the lower surface of the surrounding case and the recess are curved, thereby permitting the watch to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0030]     (15) In yet a further variant, the retaining means further includes first and second ridges. The ridges are sized and shaped to retain the continuous loop.  
         [0031]     (16) In another variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism further includes at least one side notch. The side notch extends downwardly from ends of the first and second ridges along side edges of the surrounding case. The notches make attachment of the continuous loop more compact.  
         [0032]     (17) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism further includes an attachment bracket. The bracket is formed of resilient material, hingedly attached at a first end adjacent a first side of the lower surface of the surrounding case and removably attached at a second end adjacent an opposite second side of the lower surface. The bracket is spaced downwardly from the lower surface by a distance slightly less than the first predetermined thickness. The bracket bears frictionally against the band when the second end is attached adjacent the opposite second side of the lower surface. When the second end of the bracket is detached from adjacent the opposite second side, the watch module may be removed from the band.  
         [0033]     (18) In yet another variant, the first end of the bracket is hingedly attached at a first point on a first side edge of the surrounding case. The bracket descends from the first point below the lower surface of the case, extends across the lower surface and ascends to a second point on an opposite second side edge of the case. The second end of the bracket is removably attached to the second side edge adjacent the second point.  
         [0034]     (19) In a further variant, the attachment mechanism further includes a recess. The recess is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case, is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band and permits the watch module to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0035]     (20) In still a further variant, the lower surface of the surrounding case and the recess are curved, thereby permitting the watch to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0036]     (21) In yet a further variant, the attachment mechanism further includes an elastic member. The member has a first predetermined cross section, is sized and shaped to fit elastically about a peripheral edge of the surrounding case, under the lower surface of the case, across the band and back over the peripheral edge. A circumferential groove is provided. The groove is located about the peripheral edge of the surrounding case and is sized and shaped to retain at least one cross section of the elastic member. When the elastic member is looped about the circumferential groove and passed under the lower surface of the surrounding case, under the band and back up and over the case and stretched over the groove, the watch module will be removably attached to the band.  
         [0037]     (22) In another variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism further includes a recess. The recess is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case, is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band and permits the watch module to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0038]     (23) In still another variant, the lower surface of the surrounding case and the recess are curved, thereby permitting the watch to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0039]     (24) In yet another variant, the elastic member includes two circular portions. The circular portions are sized and shaped to fit elastically about the circumferential groove. The circular portions are joined at their peripheral edges by at least one straight member. The straight member is sized to extend elastically from the first circular portion, under the lower surface of the surrounding case, under the band and back to the peripheral edge of the second circular portion.  
         [0040]     (25) In a further variant, the attachment mechanism further includes at least one slot. The slot extends from a front edge of the surrounding case to a rear edge of the case, has an opening at a side edge of the case and is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band. When the band is inserted into the slot, the watch module will be removably attached to the band.  
         [0041]     (26) In still a further variant, the opening is slightly smaller than the first predetermined thickness. When the band is inserted into the slot, slight pressure will be required to force the band past the opening and into the slot, thereby securing the watch module to the band.  
         [0042]     (27) In yet a further variant, the attachment mechanism further includes first and second parallel slots. The slots are located above the lower surface of the surrounding case. Each of the slots has an opening at an adjacent side edge of the case. Two bands are provided. Each of the bands is disposed in one of the first and second slots.  
         [0043]     (28) In another variant of the invention, the lower surface of the surrounding case is curved, thereby permitting the watch to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0044]     (29) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism further includes a curved support platform. The platform has a first end and a second end. Each of the ends extends outwardly adjacent first and second side edges of the lower surface of the surrounding case, is curved to conform to the wrist of the wearer, and has a width at least equal to the first predetermined width. First and second attachment notches are provided. Each of the notches is located adjacent one of the first and second ends of the support platform and is sized and shaped to retain a folded loop of the flexible, continuous band. When a folded loop of the band is inserted into to each of the first and second attachment notches, the watch module will be removably attached to the folded band.  
         [0045]     (30) In yet another variant, each of the attachment notches includes an aperture located adjacent each of the first and second ends of the support platform. A retaining member is provided. The retaining member extends from a proximal end attached to a lateral inside edge of the aperture toward an opposite lateral inside edge. A distal end of the retaining member is spaced from the opposite edge by at least the first predetermined thickness. When the folded loop of the flexible, continuous band is inserted into each of the apertures and about the retaining member, the watch module will be removably attached to the folded band.  
         [0046]     (31) In a further variant, each of the attachment notches includes an opening. The opening extends from a first edge of the curved support platform toward a second opposite edge of the platform. The opening defines a retaining member disposed at a distal end of the support platform, the retaining member is spaced outwardly from the opening by at least the first predetermined thickness. When the folded loop of the flexible, continuous band is disposed through the opening and about each of the retaining members the watch module will be removably. attached to the folded band.  
         [0047]     (32) In still a further variant of the invention, each of the retaining members is attached to the second edge of the support platform at an acute angle, thereby more securely attaching the watch module to the folded band.  
         [0048]     (33) In yet a further variant, the attachment mechanism further includes an attachment bracket. The bracket is formed of resilient material, hingedly attached at a first end adjacent a first side of the lower surface of the surrounding case and removably attached at a second end adjacent an opposite second side of the upper surface of the case. The bracket is spaced downwardly from the lower surface by a distance slightly less than the first predetermined thickness. The bracket bears frictionally against the band when the second end is attached adjacent the opposite second side of the upper surface. When the second end of the bracket is detached from adjacent the opposite second side, the watch module may be removed from the band.  
         [0049]     (34) In another variant, the first end of the bracket is hingedly attached at a first point on the first side edge of the surrounding case. The bracket descends from the first point below the lower surface of the case, extends across the lower surface and ascends to a second point on an opposite second side of the upper surface of the case. The second end of the bracket is removably attached to the upper surface adjacent the second point.  
         [0050]     (35) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism further includes a recess. The recess is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case, is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band and permits the watch module to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0051]     (36) In a further variant, the lower surface of the surrounding case and the recess are curved, thereby permitting the watch to fit more closely against the wrist of the wearer.  
         [0052]     (37) In another variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism includes an underband fastener. The fastener is cylindrical, has a diameter less than an outer horizontal dimension of the watch module, a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness and a surrounding external thread. The lower surface of the surrounding case has a recess. The recess is sized, shaped and matingly threaded to receive the underband fastener. The flexible, continuous band is located within the horizontal slot and the underband fastener is threaded into the recess and the watch module is removably attached to the band.  
         [0053]     (38) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism includes a band retaining tray. The retaining tray has a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness, first and second side edges adjacent the slot and a locking tab extending upwardly from the first side edge. The retaining tray is hingedly attached at the second side edge to the surrounding case at a side edge of the case. A mating locking recess is provided. The locking recess is located at an opposite side edge of the surrounding case and is sized and shaped to removably attach the band retaining tray to the surrounding case at the first side edge. The flexible, continuous band is located within the horizontal slot, the locking tab engages the mating locking recess and the watch module is removably attached to the band.  
         [0054]     (39) In yet another variant, the attachment mechanism includes a retaining disk. The retaining disk has a second predetermined thickness, a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness, at least two curved keyhole-shaped apertures located adjacent the horizontal slot. The keyhole-shaped aperture has a wide portion and a narrow portion. At least two mating securing protrusions are provided. The protrusions have a shaft portion extending downwardly from the lower surface of the surrounding case and a head portion located at a lower end of the shaft portion. The shaft portion is slightly longer than the second predetermined thickness, and is sized and shaped to fit slidably within the narrow portion of the keyhole-shaped aperture. The head portion is sized and shaped to fit slidably within the wide portion of the keyhole-shaped aperture. The flexible, continuous band is located within the horizontal slot, the head portion of the mating securing protrusion passes through the wide portion of the keyhole-shaped aperture, the watch module is twisted with respect to the retaining disk and the shaft portion entersg the narrow portion of the keyhole-shaped aperture, thereby removably securing the flexible band between the retaining disk and the lower surface of the surrounding case.  
         [0055]     (40) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism includes at least one detent. The detent is located on either of the lower surface of the surrounding case and an upper surface of the retaining disk. At least one mating detent button is provided. The mating detent button extends from the surrounding case or the upper surface of the retaining disk and removably engages the at least one detent to deter rotation of the retaining disk with respect to the surrounding case, thereby more securely attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0056]     (41) In yet another variant, the attachment mechanism includes a sliding retainer plate. The retainer plate has a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness. It is rotatably attached to the lower surface of the surrounding case at a point adjacent the horizontal slot. At least one detent is provided. The detent is located on either of the lower surface of the surrounding case and an upper surface of the retainer plate. At least one mating detent button is provided. The mating detent button extends from the surrounding case or the upper surface of the retainer plate and removably engages the at least one detent to deter rotation of the retainer plate with respect to the surrounding case, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0057]     (42) In a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes a retaining platform. The retaining platform has a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness. The platform has first and second side edges. The side edges are parallel to and extend outwardly from the horizontal slot, and have a third predetermined thickness. A receiving channel is provided. The receiving channel is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case, has first and second parallel receiving notches. The notches are sized and shaped to fit slidably over the first and second side edges of the retaining platform, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0058]     (43) In still a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes at least one detent. The detent is located on either of the first and second side edges of the retaining platform and inner surfaces of the first and second parallel receiving notches. At least one mating detent button is provided. The mating detent button extends from either of first and second side edges of the retaining platform and inner surfaces of the first and second parallel receiving notches. The mating detent button removably engages the at least one detent to deter sliding of the retaining platform with respect to the surrounding case, thereby more securely attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0059]     (44) In yet a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and deeper than the first predetermined thickness. The slot has an upper surface and substantially vertical first and second side walls. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. At least one securing aperture is provided. The securing aperture penetrates the surrounding case and the first vertical side wall at a point spaced from the upper surface by approximately the first predetermined thickness. At least one mating receiving recess is provided. The receiving recess is located in the opposite second vertical side wall in alignment with the securing aperture. At least one retaining rod is provided. The retaining rod is sized and shaped to fit frictionally through the securing aperture and into the receiving recess. The flexible band is located in the horizontal slot, the retaining rod is inserted into the securing aperture, under the flexible band and into the mating receiving recess, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0060]     (45) In another variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism includes a locking lip. The locking lip is located in a side edge of the surrounding case slightly below an upper edge of the securing aperture. The locking lip bears against the retaining rod as the rod is inserted into the securing aperture and thereby securing an end of the retaining rod and preventing the rod from moving backward out of the aperture and thus removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0061]     (46) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism includes an underband tray. The tray has first and second side edges, a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and at least as deep as the first predetermined thickness located between the side edges. The tray has either of a magnet and ferromagnetic material located between the first side edge and the slot. The tray is hingedly attached adjacent the second side edge to the surrounding case. The surrounding case has either of a magnet and ferromagnetic material located in the lower surface to removably engage either of the magnet and the ferromagnetic material located in the tray, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0062]     (47) In yet another variant, the attachment mechanism includes a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness, the horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. A spring clip is provided. The spring clip has a first end and a second end and is pivotally mounted at the first end to the lower surface of the surrounding case. The surrounding case has a retaining recess. The recess is located in the lower surface adjacent to the horizontal slot and sized and shaped to removably receive the second end of the spring clip. The horizontal slot receives the flexible band, the spring clip slides pivotally over the band and removably engages the retaining recess, thererby removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0063]     (48) In a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness, the horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. At least one threaded hole is provided. The threaded hole is located in an upper surface of the horizontal slot. A screw is provided. The screw has a mating thread for removably attaching to the threaded hole and a point for piercing the flexible band. The screw penetrates the flexible band and removably engages the threaded hole, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0064]     (49) In still a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes at least one retaining arm. The retaining arm is formed of malleable material and descends from the surrounding case for a distance equal to at least a portion of the first predetermined width. The retaining arm is bendable over the flexible band and removably attaches the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0065]     (50) In yet a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case.  
         [0066]     (51) In another variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism includes a fixed retaining arm. The fixed arm descends from a side edge of the surrounding case and has a first inturned lip. The first lip is spaced from the lower surface of surrounding case by the first predetermined thickness. A sliding retaining arm is provided. The sliding arm descends from an opposite side edge of the surrounding case, has an upper slide member, and a second inturned lip. The second lip is spaced from the lower surface of surrounding case by the first predetermined thickness. The upper slide member has a protrusion on either of an upper surface and a lower surface of the member and fits slidably within a slot in the surrounding case adjacent the lower surface. The slot has a detent on an interior wall of the slot. The detent removably receives the protrusion. The first and second inturned lips removably engage the flexible band, the protrusion on the slide member removably engages the detent and thus removably attaches the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0067]     (52) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism includes a receiving tray. The receiving tray has a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness, an upper surface, a lower surface and first and second side edges, the side edges are parallel to and extend outwardly from the horizontal slot. First and second attachment notches are provided. The notches are located at the first and second side edges, respectively, and extend from the upper surface to the lower surface of the tray and inwardly from the side edges. First and second relief cuts are provided. The relief cuts are located at the lower surface of the tray and extend inwardly from the first and second attachment notches. First and second snap fingers are provided. The snap fingers extend downwardly from the surrounding case and have a securing ledge extending inwardly from lower ends of the fingers. The first and second snap fingers are sized and shaped to fit slidably within the attachment notches and the securing ledges are sized and shaped to fit removably into the first and second relief cuts. The flexible band is located in the horizontal slot in the receiving tray. The tray is removably attached to the snap fingers and removably attaches the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0068]     (53) In yet another variant, the attachment mechanism includes a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and deeper than the first predetermined thickness. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. A retaining slot is provided. The retaining slot is located about a perimeter of the surrounding case. The slot has an upper edge and a lower edge and is spaced upwardly from the lower surface of the surrounding case. The upper edge is spaced downwardly from an upper surface of the horizontal slot by approximately the first predetermined thickness. An elastic member is provided. The elastic member is sized and shaped to fit closely between the upper edge and the lower edge of the retaining slot. The flexible band is located within the horizontal slot. The elastic member is located within the retaining slot and removably attachesthe watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0069]     (54) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism includes a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. The slot has first and second parallel side edges. First and second retaining brackets are provided. The brackets extend outwardly from the first and second parallel side edges in opposite directions. Each of the retaining brackets terminates in a pair of pin fastening notches. The notches are located on either side of the horizontal slot. First and second securing pins are provided. Each of the pins has a shaft sized and shaped to fit frictionally within the pin fastening notches and first and second end caps. The ends caps are larger than the notches. The flexible band is located within the horizontal slot, the securing pins are located within the pin fastening notches and removably attach the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0070]     (55) In a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. The slot has first and second parallel side edges. First and second L-shaped clips are provided. Each of the L-shaped clips has a first end, a second end, first and second side edges and is hingedly attached to opposite side edges of the surrounding case. The clips are sized and shaped to constrain the flexible band in the horizontal slot when folded below the case. Each of the clips has a raised retaining button. Each of the side edges of the surrounding case has a receiving detent. Each of the detents is sized and shaped to removably retain one of the retaining buttons. The flexible band is located within the horizontal slot, the L-shaped clips are pivoted downwardly to constrain the band within the slot and the retaining buttons engage the receiving detents to removably attach the watch module to the band.  
         [0071]     (56) In still a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes first and second retaining brackets. Each of the retaining brackets extends outwardly from the surrounding case in opposite directions parallel to the flexible band. Each of the retaining brackets has first and second parallel side plates, the side plates are spaced apart by at least the first predetermined width and terminate in an end bar connecting the side plates. The surrounding case, each pair of side plates and each end bar define an aperture at least twice as long as the first predetermined thickness. First and second securing pins are provided. Each of the pins has a shaft at least as long as the first predetermined width and first and second end caps. The ends caps are larger than the shaft. The flexible band is located beneath the surrounding case and has loops extending upwardly through the apertures. The securing pins are located within the loops and the end caps secure the pins to the band, removably attaching the watch module to the band.  
         [0072]     (57) In another variant of the invention, the surrounding case includes a horizontal slot. The slot is at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case, the slot has first and second parallel side edges.  
         [0073]     (58) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism includes first and second retaining ledges. Each of the retaining ledges extends outwardly from the surrounding case in opposite directions parallel to the flexible band. A retaining clip is provided. The clip is formed of resilient material, is sized and shaped to fit beneath the surrounding case and flexible band and has curved ends. The ends urge loops of the flexible band over the retaining ledges and inwardly toward the surrounding case. The curved ends extend upwardly past the ledges. The retaining clip removably attaches the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0074]     (59) In yet another variant, the surrounding case includes a horizontal slot. The slot is at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. The slot has first and second parallel side edges.  
         [0075]     (60) In a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes an attachment sleeve. The sleeve has a planar upper portion and a planar lower portion. Each of the portions has an upper surface, a lower surface, first and second side edges, upper edges and lower edges. The upper portion is attached to the lower surface of the surrounding case and hingedly attached at the first side edge to the first side edge of the lower portion. At least one attachment means is provided. The attachment means removably secures the upper portion to the lower portion at the second side edges. The flexible band is removably secured between the upper portion and the lower portion, thereby removably attaching the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0076]     (61) In still a further variant, the attachment means is selected from the group consisting of snap, button, hook and loop fastener and slot and turn button fastener.  
         [0077]     (62) In yet a further variant, the attachment mechanism includes first and second receiving bars. Each of the bars is attached to opposite lower edges of the surrounding case and spaced outwardly from the case by a pair of support brackets. A securing strap is provided. The strap is formed of flexible material, has a first end, a second end, an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface has a hooking attachment means adjacent the first end. The lower surface has a loop attachment means adjacent the second end. The flexible band is located beneath the lower surface of the surrounding case. The securing strap is looped over the receiving bars and under the flexible band. The second end is folded over the first end, the hooking attachment means removably engages the loop attachment means and removably secures the watch module to the flexible band.  
         [0078]     (63) In still a further variant of the invention, the surrounding case includes a horizontal slot. The slot is at least as wide as the first predetermined width and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness. The horizontal slot is located in the lower surface of the surrounding case. The slot has first and second parallel side edges.  
         [0079]     (64) In a final variant, a subband fastener is provided. The fastener is formed of resilient material, cylindrical, has a diameter less than an outer horizontal dimension of the watch module. The fastener has a horizontal slot at least as wide as the first predetermined width, approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness and a peripheral lip. The lip extends on either side of the slot. The lower surface of the surrounding case has a recess. The recess is sized, and shaped to receive the peripheral lip of the subband fastener. The flexible, continuous band is located within the horizontal slot and the subband fastener is fit frictionally into the recess. The watch module will be removably attached to the band.  
         [0080]     An appreciation of the other aims and objectives of the present invention and an understanding of it may be achieved by referring to the accompanying drawings and the detailed description of a preferred embodiment. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0081]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the invention illustrating an analog watch module with prong-type attachment mechanism;  
         [0082]      FIG. 2  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 1  embodiment illustrating passage of the continuous band through the attachment mechanism;  
         [0083]      FIG. 2A  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 1  embodiment illustrating a surrounding case having a curved lower surface;  
         [0084]      FIG. 2B  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 1  embodiment illustrating a surrounding case having a curved bottom plate;  
         [0085]      FIG. 3  is a bottom view of the  FIG. 1  embodiment illustrating the prong-type attachment mechanism;  
         [0086]      FIG. 3A  is a bottom view of the  FIG. 1  embodiment illustrating a recessed channel in the lower surface of the surrounding case;  
         [0087]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the invention illustrating a digital watch movement and prong-type attachment mechanism;  
         [0088]      FIG. 5  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 4  embodiment illustrating passage of the continuous band through the attachment mechanism;  
         [0089]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the watch module of the  FIG. 4  embodiment illustrating the prong-type attachment mechanism and a channel in the lower surface of the surrounding case;  
         [0090]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the invention illustrating an analog watch movement and elastic member-type attachment mechanism;  
         [0091]      FIG. 8  is a top view of the  FIG. 7  embodiment with a partial section illustrating attachment ridges on an upper surface of the surrounding case;  
         [0092]      FIG. 9  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 7  embodiment illustrating a curved watch module and a recess the lower surface of the case;  
         [0093]      FIG. 10  is a bottom view of the  FIG. 7  embodiment illustrating a recess the lower surface of the case;  
         [0094]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the invention illustrating an analog watch movement and underband plate-type attachment mechanism;  
         [0095]      FIG. 12 a  side elevational view of the  FIG. 11  embodiment illustrating a curved underband plate;  
         [0096]      FIG. 13  is a top view of the  FIG. 11  embodiment illustrating the underband plate and two retaining tabs;  
         [0097]      FIG. 14 a  side elevational view of the  FIG. 11  embodiment illustrating a curved underband plate; and a recess in the lower surface of the watch module;  
         [0098]      FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a larger version of the  FIG. 11  embodiment illustrating a watch module having two underband plates and retaining tabs on each side of the surrounding case;  
         [0099]      FIG. 16 a  bottom view of the  FIG. 15  embodiment illustrating the two underband plates;  
         [0100]      FIG. 17 a  side elevational view of the  FIG. 15  embodiment illustrating a curved underband plate;  
         [0101]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the invention illustrating a hinged clip-type attachment mechanism in an open position;  
         [0102]      FIG. 19  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 18  embodiment of the invention illustrating a hinged clip-type attachment mechanism pivoting at the side of the lower surface of the surrounding case and fastening on the upper surface of the case;  
         [0103]      FIG. 19A  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 18  embodiment of the invention illustrating a hinged clip-type attachment mechanism pivoting at the side of the surrounding case and fastening on the upper surface of the case;  
         [0104]      FIG. 20  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 18  embodiment of the invention illustrating a hinged clip-type attachment mechanism pivoting at the side of the surrounding case and fastening on the side of the case;  
         [0105]      FIG. 21  is a side elevational view of the  FIG. 18  embodiment of the invention illustrating a hinged clip-type attachment mechanism pivoting at the side of the lower surface of the surrounding case and fastening at an opposite side of the lower surface of the case;  
         [0106]      FIG. 22  is a perspective view of the  FIG. 18  embodiment of the invention illustrating a channel in the curved lower surface of the surrounding case;  
         [0107]      FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the invention illustrating a watch module with a circumferential groove and elastic member attachment means;  
         [0108]      FIG. 24  is a perspective view of the  FIG. 23  embodiment of the invention illustrating the attachment of the elastic member;  
         [0109]      FIG. 25  is a perspective view of the  FIG. 23  embodiment of the invention illustrating the elastic member attached to the circumferential groove;  
         [0110]      FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the invention illustrating a dual band side opening attachment mechanism;  
         [0111]      FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the watch module of the  FIG. 26  embodiment of the invention illustrating the side openings of the attachment mechanism;  
         [0112]      FIG. 28  is a perspective view of  FIG. 26  embodiment of the invention illustrating a curved watch module;  
         [0113]      FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the  FIG. 26  embodiment of the invention illustrating a curved watch module for a single band;  
         [0114]      FIG. 30  is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the invention illustrating a curved watch module with an attachment mechanism for a folded flexible band;  
         [0115]      FIG. 31  is a partial detailed perspective view of the  FIG. 30  embodiment of the invention illustrating attachment of the folded band to the watch module;  
         [0116]      FIG. 32  is a perspective view of the  FIG. 30  embodiment of the invention illustrating a variant in the band retaining mechanism;  
         [0117]      FIG. 33  is a perspective view of the  FIG. 30  embodiment of the invention illustrating another variant in the band retaining mechanism having an angled retaining member.  
         [0118]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the invention illustrating an underband fastener threaded into the watch module;  
         [0119]      FIG. 35  is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the invention illustrating a band retaining tray that snaps into the watch module;  
         [0120]      FIG. 36  is a perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of the invention illustrating a retaining disk with keyhole slots for attachment to pins attached to the watch module;  
         [0121]      FIG. 37  is a perspective view from above of a twelfth embodiment of the invention illustrating a sliding retainer plate that is pivotally attached to the watch module;  
         [0122]      FIG. 38  is a perspective view from below of the  FIG. 37  embodiment of the invention illustrating a a sliding retainer plate that is pivotally attached to the watch module and retaining detent;  
         [0123]      FIG. 39  is a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of the invention illustrating a retaining platform that fits matching slots on the watch module;  
         [0124]      FIG. 40  is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the invention illustrating a horizontal slot with orthogonal apertures in the watch module and a mating retaining rod for attachment to the flexible band;  
         [0125]      FIG. 41  is a perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of the invention illustrating an underband tray that attaches magnetically to the watch module;  
         [0126]      FIG. 42  is a perspective view of a sixteenth embodiment of the invention illustrating a horizontal slot in the watch module and a spring clip pivotally mounted to the module to retain the flexible band;  
         [0127]      FIG. 43  is a perspective view of a seventeenth embodiment of the invention illustrating a horizontal slot in the watch module with a threaded hole in its center and a pointed screw that penetrates the band for attachment;  
         [0128]      FIG. 44  is a perspective view of an eighteenth embodiment of the invention illustrating a horizontal slot in the watch module and malleable retaining arms that bend over the flexible band for attachment;  
         [0129]      FIG. 45  is a perspective view from below of a nineteenth embodiment of the invention illustrating fixed and movable retaining arms attached to the watch module for retaining the flexible band;  
         [0130]      FIG. 46  is a perspective view from above of the  FIG. 45  embodiment of the invention illustrating closure of the movable, retaining arm;  
         [0131]      FIG. 47  is a perspective view of a twentieth embodiment of the invention illustrating a receiving tray with a pair of notches that snaps into the watch module;  
         [0132]      FIG. 48  is a perspective view of a twenty first embodiment of the invention illustrating a horizontal slot in the watch module for the flexible band and a circumferential groove for a retaining elastic member;  
         [0133]      FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a twenty second embodiment of the invention illustrating a horizontal slot in the watch module with first and second retaining brackets at the ends of the slot and a pair of securing pins to attach the flexible band;  
         [0134]      FIG. 50  is a perspective view of a twenty third embodiment of the invention illustrating a horizontal slot in the watch module and first and second movable L-shaped clips for retaining the flexible band;  
         [0135]      FIG. 51  is a perspective view of a twenty fourth embodiment of the invention illustrating first and second retaining brackets attached to the watch module providing a pair of apertures for a loop of the flexible band; the band retained by a pair of securing pins;  
         [0136]      FIG. 52  is a perspective view of a twenty fifth embodiment of the invention illustrating first and second retaining ledges attached to the watch module and a retaining clip holding the flexible band to the ledges of the module;  
         [0137]      FIG. 53  is a perspective view of a twenty fifth embodiment of the invention illustrating an attachment sleeve attached to the watch module having fastening means for retaining the flexible band within the sleeve;  
         [0138]      FIG. 54  is a perspective view of a twenty sixth embodiment of the invention illustrating first and second receiving bars attached to the watch module and a strap of flexible material for securing the flexible band to the watch module; and  
         [0139]      FIG. 55  is a perspective view of a twenty seventh embodiment of the invention illustrating a subband fastener that has a surrounding protruding lip that snaps into a recess in the watch module. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       [0140]     (1) A flexible band with clip-on watch  10 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-33 , providing all of the desired features can be constructed from the following components. At least one flexible, continuous band  14  is provided. The band  14  has a first predetermined width  18  and a first predetermined thickness  22 , is formed of resilient material and is sized and shaped to fit stretchably over a wearer&#39;s hand (not shown) and loosely about the wearer&#39;s wrist  30 . A watch module  34  is provided. The watch module  34  includes a time-keeping movement  38 , a display  42 , a surrounding case  46 , and an attachment mechanism  50 . The case  46  has an upper surface  54  and a lower surface  58 . The attachment mechanism  50  removably joins the watch module  34  to the band  14 .  
         [0141]     (2) In a variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes first  62  and second  66  retaining clips. Each of the clips  62 ,  66  extends outwardly from the surrounding case  46  along a diameter  70  of the watch module  34  in opposite directions. Each of the clips  62 ,  66  has a channel  74  through it. The channel  74  has an upper wall  78 , a lower wall  82  and is sized and shaped to fit slidably about the band  14 . The lower wall  82  includes first  86  and second  90  opposing prongs. The prongs  86 ,  90  are located at right angles to the diameter  70  and extend inwardly from outer edges  94  of the clips  62 ,  66  toward each other. The prongs  86 ,  90  are spaced apart sufficiently to permit an edge  96  of the band  14  to pass between them. When the edge  96  of the band  14  is passed between each of the sets of prongs  86 ,  90  and turned to lie flat against the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , the band  14  will be removably attached to the watch module  34 .  
         [0142]     (3) In another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 2B , the watch module  34  further includes a bottom plate  98 . The bottom plate  98  is attached to the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and forms the upper wall  78  of the channel  74 . The lower wall  82  includes the first  86  and second  90  opposing prongs descending from side edges  102  of the bottom plate  98 .  
         [0143]     (4) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 2B , the bottom plate  98  is curved to permit the watch module  34  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0144]     (5) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 3A , the upper wall  78  of the channel  74  is recessed into the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , thereby permitting the band  14  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0145]     (6) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the watch module  34  includes an analog watch movement  110 .  
         [0146]     (7) In still a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the watch module  34  includes a digital watch movement  114 .  
         [0147]     (8) In yet a further variant, the watch module  34  is waterproof.  
         [0148]     (9) In a variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIGS. 11-17 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes at least one first side wall  118 . The first side wall  118  is attached at a right angle to the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and descends from it for a first predetermined distance  122 . At least one underband plate.  126  is provided. The plate  126  is attached at a right angle at a proximate edge  130  to a lower edge  134  of the first side wall  118 . The plate  126  has a width  138  at least equal to the first predetermined width  18  and is spaced from the lower surface  58  by at least the first predetermined thickness  22 . At least one second side wall  142  is provided. The second side wall  142  is attached at a right angle at a distal edge  146  of the underband plate  126  and ascends toward the lower surface  58  for at least the first predetermined distance  122 . At least one retaining tab  150  is provided. The retaining tab  150  is attached at a right angle at an upper edge  154  of the second side wall  142  and extends inwardly over the underband plate  126  for a second predetermined distance  158 . When the band  14  is inserted between the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and the underband plate  126  it will be located against the first side wall  118  and when the band  14  is then pushed under the retaining tab  150  it will be located between the first side wall  118  and the second side wall  142 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the band  14 .  
         [0149]     (10) In another variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 12, 14  and  17 , the underband plate  126  is curved to permit the watch module  34  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0150]     (11) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 14 , the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  is recessed, thereby providing a space  162  for the band  14  and permitting the watch module  34  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0151]     (12) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 7-10 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes first  166  and second  170  retaining means. The retaining means  166 ,  170  extend upwardly from the upper surface  54  of the surrounding case  46 . A continuous loop  174  is provided. The loop  174  is formed of resilient material and is sized and shaped to extend from an inner edge  178  of the first retaining means  166 , beneath the lower surface  58  of the watch module  34  and the continuous band  14 , and over an inner edge  182  of the second retaining means  170 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the band  14 .  
         [0152]     (13) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes a recess  186 . The recess  186  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band  14  and permits the watch module  34  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0153]     (14) In still a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and the recess  186  are curved, thereby permitting the watch  10  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0154]     (15) In yet a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the retaining means  166 ,  170  further includes first  190  and second  194  ridges. The ridges  190 ,  194  are sized and shaped to retain the continuous loop  174 .  
         [0155]     (16) In another variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIGS. 7-10 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes at least one side notch  198 . The side notch  198  extends downwardly from ends  202  of the first  190  and second  194  ridges along side edges  206  of the surrounding case  46 . The notches  198  make attachment of the continuous loop  174  more compact.  
         [0156]     (17) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 18-22 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes an attachment bracket  210 . As illustrated in  FIG. 21 , the bracket  210  is formed of resilient material, hingedly attached at a first end  214  adjacent a first side. 218  of the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and removably attached at a second end  222  adjacent an opposite second side  226  of the lower surface  58 . The bracket  210  is spaced downwardly from the lower surface  58  by a distance  230  slightly less than the first predetermined thickness  22 . The bracket  210  bears frictionally against the band  14  when the second end  222  is attached adjacent the opposite second side  226  of the lower surface  58 . When the second end  222  of the bracket  210  is detached from adjacent the opposite second side  226 , the watch module  34  may be removed from the band  14 .  
         [0157]     (18) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 20 , the first end  214  of the bracket  210  is hingedly attached at a first point  234  on a first side edge  238  of the surrounding case  46 . The bracket  210  descends from the first point  234  below the lower surface  58  of the case  46 , extends across the lower surface  58  and ascends to a second point  242  on an opposite second side edge  246  of the case  46 . The second end  222  of the bracket  210  is removably attached to the second side edge  246  adjacent the second point  242 .  
         [0158]     (19) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 22 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes a recess  250 . The recess  250  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band  14  and permits the watch module  34  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106   
         [0159]     (20) In still a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 22 , the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and the recess  250  are curved, thereby permitting the watch  10  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0160]     (21) In yet a further variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 23-25 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes an elastic member  254 . The member  254  has a first predetermined cross section  258 , is sized and shaped to fit elastically about a peripheral edge  262  of the surrounding case  46 , under the lower surface  58  of the case  46 , across the band  14  and back over the peripheral edge  262 . A circumferential groove  266  is provided. The groove  266  is located about the peripheral edge  262  of the surrounding case  46  and is sized and shaped to retain at least one cross section  258  of the elastic member  254 . When the elastic member  254  is looped about the circumferential groove  266  and passed under the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , under the band  14  and back up and over the case  46  and stretched over the groove  266 , the watch module  34  will be removably attached to the band  14 .  
         [0161]     (22) In another variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIG. 24 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes a recess  270 . The recess  270  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band  14  and permits the watch module  34  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0162]     (23) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 24 , the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and the recess  270  are curved, thereby permitting the watch  10  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0163]     (24) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 23-25 , the elastic member  254  includes two circular portions  274 ,  278 . The circular portions  274  are sized and shaped to fit elastically about the circumferential groove  266 . The circular portions  274  are joined at their peripheral edges  282  by at least one straight member  286 . The straight member  286  is sized to extend elastically from the first circular portion  274 , under the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , under the band  14  and back to the peripheral edge  282  of the second circular portion  278 .  
         [0164]     (25) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 26-29 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes at least one slot  290 . The slot  290  extends from a front edge  294  of the surrounding case  46  to a rear edge  298  of the case  46 , has an opening  302  at a side edge  306  of the case  46  and is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band  14 . When the band  14  is inserted into the slot  290 , the watch module  34  will be removably attached to the band  14 .  
         [0165]     (26) In still a further variant, the opening  302  is slightly smaller than the first predetermined thickness  22 . When the band  14  is inserted into the slot  290 , slight pressure will be required to force the band  14  past the opening  302  and into the slot  290 , thereby securing the watch module  34  to the band  14 .  
         [0166]     (27) In yet a further variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 26-28 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes first  306  and second  310  parallel slots. The slots  306 ,  310  are located above the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . Each of the slots  306 ,  310  has an opening  302  at an adjacent side edge  314 ,  318  of the case  46 . Two bands  14  are provided.  
         [0167]     Each of the bands  14  is disposed in one of the first  306  and second  310  slots.  
         [0168]     (28) In another variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIGS. 28 and 29 , the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  is curved, thereby permitting the watch  10  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0169]     (29) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 30 and 31 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes a curved support platform  322 . The platform  322  has a first end  326  and a second end  330 . Each of the ends  326 ,  330  extends outwardly adjacent first  334  and second  338  side edges of the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , is curved to conform to the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 , and has a width  342  at least equal to the first predetermined width  18 . First  346  and second  350  attachment notches are provided. Each of the notches  346 ,  350  is located adjacent one of the first  326  and second  330  ends of the support platform  322  and is sized and shaped to retain a folded loop  354  of the flexible, continuous band  14 . When a folded loop  354  of the band  14  is inserted into to each of the first  346  and second  350  attachment notches, the watch module  34  will be removably attached to the folded band  14 .  
         [0170]     (30) In yet another variant, each of the attachment notches  346 ,  350  includes an aperture  358  located adjacent each of the first  326  and second  330  ends of the support platform  322 . A retaining member  362  is provided. The retaining member  362  extends from a proximal end  366  attached to a lateral inside edge  370  of the aperture  358  toward an opposite lateral inside edge  374 . A distal end  378  of the retaining member  362  is spaced from the opposite edge  374  by at least the first predetermined thickness  22 . When the folded loop  354  of the flexible, continuous band  14  is inserted into each of the apertures  358  and about the retaining member  362 , the watch module  34  will be removably attached to the folded band  14 .  
         [0171]     (31) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 32 , each of the attachment notches  346 ,  350  includes an opening  382 . The opening  382  extends from a first edge  386  of the curved support platform  322  toward a second opposite edge  390  of the platform  322 . The opening  382  defines a retaining member  362  disposed at a distal end  394  of the support platform  322 , the retaining member  362  is spaced outwardly from the opening  382  by at least the first predetermined thickness  22 . When the folded loop  354  of the flexible, continuous band  14  is disposed through the opening  382  and about each of the retaining members  362  the watch module  34  will be removably attached to the folded band  14 .  
         [0172]     (32) In still a further variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIG. 33 , each of the retaining members  362  is attached to the second edge  390  of the support platform  322  at an acute angle  398 , thereby more securely attaching the watch module  34  to the folded band  14 .  
         [0173]     (33) In yet a further variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 18, 19  and  22 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes an attachment bracket  210 . The bracket  210  is formed of resilient material, hingedly attached at a first end  214  adjacent a first side  218  of the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and removably attached at a second end  222  adjacent an opposite second side  402  of the upper surface  54  of the case  46 . The bracket  210  is spaced downwardly from the lower surface  58  by a distance  230  slightly less than the first predetermined thickness  22 . The bracket  210  bears frictionally against the band  14  when the second end  222  is attached adjacent the opposite second side  402  of the upper surface  54 . When the second end  222  of the bracket  210  is detached from adjacent the opposite second side  402 , the watch module  30  may be removed from the band  14 .  
         [0174]     (34) In another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 19A , the first end  214  of the bracket  210  is hingedly attached at a first point  234  on the first side edge  238  of the surrounding case  46 . The bracket  210  descends from the first point  234  below the lower surface  58  of the case  46 , extends across the lower surface  58  and ascends to a second point  406  on an opposite second side  402  of the upper surface  54  of the case  46 . The second end  222  of the bracket  210  is removably attached to the upper surface  54  adjacent the second point  406   
         [0175]     (35) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 22 , the attachment mechanism  50  further includes a recess  250 . The recess  250  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , is sized and shaped to fit frictionally about the band  14  and permits the watch module  34  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106   
         [0176]     (36) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 22 , the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and the recess  250  are curved, thereby permitting the watch  10  to fit more closely against the wrist  30  of the wearer  106 .  
         [0177]     (37) In another variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIG. 34 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes an underband fastener  410 . The fastener  410  is cylindrical, has a diameter less than an outer horizontal dimension  414  of the watch module  34 , a horizontal slot  418  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22  and a surrounding external thread  422 . The lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  has a recess  426 . The recess  426  is sized, shaped and matingly threaded to receive the underband fastener  410 . The flexible, continuous band  14  is located within the horizontal slot  418  and the underband fastener  410  is threaded into the recess  426  and the watch module  34  is removably attached to the band  14 .  
         [0178]     (38) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 35 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a band retaining tray  430 . The retaining tray  430  has a horizontal slot  432  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 , first  434  and second  438  side edges adjacent the slot  432  and a locking tab  442  extending upwardly from the first side edge  434 . The retaining tray  430  is hingedly attached at the second side edge  438  to the surrounding case  46  at a side edge  442  of the case  46 . A mating locking recess  446  is provided. The locking recess  446  is located at an opposite side edge  450  of the surrounding case  46  and is sized and shaped to removably attach the band retaining tray  430  to the surrounding case  46  at the first side edge  434 . The flexible, continuous band  14  is located within the horizontal slot  418 , the locking tab  442  engages the mating locking recess  446  and the watch module  34  is removably attached to the band  14 .  
         [0179]     (39) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 36 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a retaining disk  450 . The retaining disk  450  has a second predetermined thickness  454 , a horizontal slot  452  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 , at least two curved keyhole-shaped apertures  458  located adjacent the horizontal slot  452 . The keyhole-shaped aperture  458  has a wide portion  462  and a narrow portion  466 . At least two mating securing protrusions  470  are provided. The protrusions  470  have a shaft portion  474  extending downwardly from the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and a head portion  478  located at a lower end  482  of the shaft portion  474 . The shaft portion  474  is slightly longer than the second predetermined thickness  454 , and is sized and shaped to fit slidably within the narrow portion  466  of the keyhole-shaped aperture  458 . The head portion  478  is sized and shaped to fit slidably within the wide portion  462  of the keyhole-shaped aperture  458 . The flexible, continuous band  14  is located within the horizontal slot  452 , the head portion  478  of the mating securing protrusion  470  passes through the wide portion  462  of the keyhole-shaped aperture  458 , the watch module  34  is twisted with respect to the retaining disk  450  and the shaft portion  474  enters the narrow portion  466  of the keyhole-shaped aperture  458 , thereby removably securing the flexible band  14  between the retaining disk  450  and the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 .  
         [0180]     (40) In still another variant, the attachment mechanism  50  includes at least one detent  486 . The detent  486  is located on either of the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and an upper surface  490  of the retaining disk  450 . At least one mating detent button  494  is provided. The mating detent button  494  extends from the surrounding case  46  or the upper surface  490  of the retaining disk  450  and removably engages the at least one detent  486  to deter rotation of the retaining disk  450  with respect to the surrounding case  46 , thereby more securely attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0181]     (41) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIGS. 37 and 38 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a sliding retainer plate  498 . The retainer plate  498  has a horizontal slot  500  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . It is rotatably attached to the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  at a point  502  adjacent the horizontal slot  500 . At least one detent  506  is provided. The detent  506  is located on either of the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and an upper surface  510  of the retainer plate  498 . At least one mating detent button  514  is provided. The mating detent button  514  extends from the surrounding case  46  or the upper surface  510  of the retainer plate  498  and removably engages the at least one detent  506  to deter rotation of the retainer plate  498  with respect to the surrounding case  46 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0182]     (42) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 39 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a retaining platform  518 . The retaining platform  518  has a horizontal slot  520  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . The platform  518  has first  522  and second  526  side edges. The side edges  522 ,  526  are parallel to and extend outwardly from the horizontal slot  520 , and have a third predetermined thickness  530 . A receiving channel  534  is provided. The receiving channel  534  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , has first  538  and second  542  parallel receiving notches. The notches  538 ,  542  are sized and shaped to fit slidably over the first  522  and second  526  side edges of the retaining platform  518 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0183]     (43) In still a further variant, the attachment mechanism  50  includes at least one detent (not shown). The detent is located on either of the first  522  and second  526  side edges of the retaining platform  518  and inner surfaces  550  of the first  538  and second  542  parallel receiving notches. At least one mating detent button  554  is provided. The mating detent button  554  extends from either of first  522  and second  526  side edges of the retaining platform  518  and inner surfaces  550  of the first  538  and second  542  parallel receiving notches.  
         [0184]     The mating detent button  554  removably engages the at least one detent to deter sliding of the retaining platform  518  with respect to the surrounding case  46 , thereby more securely attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0185]     (44) In yet a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 40 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a horizontal slot  558  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and deeper than the first predetermined thickness  22 . The slot  558  has an upper surface  562  and substantially vertical first  566  and second  570  side walls. The horizontal slot  558  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . At least one securing aperture  574  is provided. The securing aperture  574  penetrates the surrounding case  46  and the first vertical side wall  566  at a point  578  spaced from the upper surface  562  by approximately the first predetermined thickness  22 . At least one mating receiving recess  582  is provided. The receiving recess  582  is located in the opposite second vertical side wall  570  in alignment with the securing aperture  574 . At least one retaining rod  586  is provided. The retaining rod  586  is sized and shaped to fit frictionally through the securing aperture  574  and into the receiving recess  582 . The flexible band  14  is located in the horizontal slot  558 , the retaining rod  586  is inserted into the securing aperture  574 , under the flexible band  14  and into the mating receiving recess  582 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0186]     (45) In another variant of the invention, the attachment mechanism  50  includes a locking lip  590 . The locking lip  590  is located in a side edge  594  of the surrounding case  46  slightly below an upper edge  598  of the securing aperture  574 . The locking lip  590  bears against the retaining rod  586  as the rod  586  is inserted into the securing aperture  574  and thereby securing an end  602  of the retaining rod  586  and preventing the rod  586  from moving backward out of the aperture  574  and thus removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0187]     (46) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 41 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes an underband tray  606 . The tray  606  has first  610  and second  614  side edges, a horizontal slot  618  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and at least as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22  located between the side edges  610 ,  614 . The tray  606  has either of a magnet  622  and ferromagnetic material  626  located between the first side edge  610  and the slot  618 . The tray  606  is hingedly attached adjacent the second side edge  614  to the surrounding case  46 . The surrounding case  46  has either of a magnet  622  and ferromagnetic material  626  located in the lower surface  58  to removably engage either of the magnet  622  and the ferromagnetic material  626  located in the tray  606 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0188]     (47) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 42 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a horizontal slot  630  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 , the horizontal slot  630  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . A spring clip  634  is provided. The spring clip  634  has a first end  638  and a second end  642  and is pivotally mounted at the first end  638  to the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . The surrounding case  46  has a retaining recess  646 . The recess  646  is located in the lower surface  58  adjacent to the horizontal slot  630  and sized and shaped to removably receive the second end  642  of the spring clip  634 . The horizontal slot  630  receives the flexible band  14 , the spring clip  634  slides pivotally over the band  14  and removably engages the retaining recess  646 , thererby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0189]     (48) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 43 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a horizontal slot  650  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 , the horizontal slot  650  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . At least one threaded hole  654  is provided. The threaded hole  654  is located in an upper surface  658  of the horizontal slot  650 . A screw  662  is provided. The screw  662  has a mating thread  666  for removably attaching to the threaded hole  654  and a point  670  for piercing the flexible band  14 . The screw  662  penetrates the flexible band  14  and removably engages the threaded hole  654 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0190]     (49) In still a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 44 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes at least one retaining arm  674 . The retaining arm  674  is formed of malleable material and descends from the surrounding case  46  for a distance equal to at least a portion of the first predetermined width  18 . The retaining arm  674  is bendable over the flexible band  14  and removably attaches the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0191]     (50) In yet a further variant, the attachment mechanism  50  includes a horizontal slot  678  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . The horizontal slot  678  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 .  
         [0192]     (51) In another variant of the invention, as illustrated in  FIGS. 45 and 46 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a fixed retaining arm  682 . The fixed arm  682  descends from a side edge  686  of the surrounding case  46  and has a first inturned lip  690 . The first lip  690  is spaced from the lower surface  58  of surrounding case  46  by the first predetermined thickness  22 . A sliding retaining arm  694  is provided. The sliding arm  694  descends from an opposite side edge  698  of the surrounding case  46 , has an upper slide member  702 , and a second inturned lip  706 . The second lip  706  is spaced from the lower surface  58  of surrounding case  46  by the first predetermined thickness  22 . The upper slide member  702  has a protrusion  710  on either of an upper surface  714  and a lower surface  718  of the member  702  and fits slidably within a slot  722  in the surrounding case  46  adjacent the lower surface  58 . The slot  722  has a detent (not shown) on an interior wall  730  of the slot  722 . The detent removably receives the protrusion  710 . The first  690  and second  706  inturned lips removably engage the flexible band  14 , the protrusion  710  on the slide member  702  removably engages the detent and thus removably attaches the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0193]     (52) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 47 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a receiving tray  734 . The receiving tray  734  has a horizontal slot  738  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 , an upper surface  742 , a lower surface  746  and first  750  and second  754  side edges, the side edges  750 ,  754  are parallel to and extend outwardly from the horizontal slot  738 . First  758  and second  762  attachment notches are provided. The notches  758 ,  762  are located at the first  750  and second  754  side edges, respectively, and extend from the upper surface  742  to the lower surface  746  of the tray  734  and inwardly from the side edges  750 ,  754 . First (not shown) and second  770  relief cuts are provided. The relief cuts  770  are located at the lower surface  746  of the tray  734  and extend inwardly from the first  758  and second  762  attachment notches. First  774  and second  778  snap fingers are provided. The snap fingers  774 ,  778  extend downwardly from the surrounding case  46  and have a securing ledge  782  extending inwardly from lower ends  786  of the fingers  774 ,  778 . The first  774  and second  778  snap fingers are sized and shaped to fit slidably within the attachment notches  758 ,  762  and the securing ledges  782  are sized and shaped to fit removably into the first and second  770  relief cuts. The flexible band  14  is located in the horizontal slot  738  in the receiving tray  734 . The tray  734  is removably attached to the snap fingers  774 ,  778  and removably attaches the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0194]     (53) In yet another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 48 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a horizontal slot  790  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and deeper than the first predetermined thickness  22 . The horizontal slot  790  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . A retaining slot  794  is provided. The retaining slot  794  is located about a perimeter  798  of the surrounding case  46 . The slot  794  has an upper edge  802  and a lower edge  806  and is spaced upwardly from the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . The upper edge  802  is spaced downwardly from an upper surface  810  of the horizontal slot  790  by approximately the first predetermined thickness  22 . An elastic member  814  is provided. The elastic member  814  is sized and shaped to fit closely between the upper edge  802  and the lower edge  806  of the retaining slot  794 . The flexible band  14  is located within the horizontal slot  790 . The elastic member  814  is located within the retaining slot  794  and removably attaches the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0195]     (54) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 49 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a horizontal slot  818  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . The horizontal slot  818  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . The slot  818  has first  822  and second  826  parallel side edges. First  830  and second  834  retaining brackets are provided. The brackets  830 ,  834  extend outwardly from the first  818  and second  822  parallel side edges in opposite directions. Each of the retaining brackets  830 ,  834  terminates in a pair of pin fastening notches  838 . The notches  838  are located on either side of the horizontal slot  818 . First  842  and second  846  securing pins are provided. Each of the pins  842 ,  846  has a shaft  850  sized and shaped to fit frictionally within the pin fastening notches  838  and first  854  and second  858  end caps. The ends caps  854 ,  858  are larger than the notches  838 . The flexible band  14  is located within the horizontal slot  818 , the securing pins  842 ,  846  are located within the pin fastening notches  838  and removably attach the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0196]     (55) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 50 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes a horizontal slot  862  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . The horizontal slot  862  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . The slot  862  has first  866  and second  870  parallel side edges. First  874  and second  878  L-shaped clips are provided. Each of the L-shaped clips  874 ,  878  has a first end  882 , a second end  886 , first  890  and second  894  side edges and is hingedly attached to opposite side edges  898 ,  902  of the surrounding case  46 . The clips  874 ,  878  are sized and shaped to constrain the flexible band  14  in the horizontal slot  862  when folded below the case  46 . Each of the clips  874 ,  878  has a raised retaining button  906 . Each of the side edges  898 ,  902  of the surrounding case  46  has a receiving detent  910 . Each of the detents  910  is sized and shaped to removably retain one of the retaining buttons  906 . The flexible band  14  is located within the horizontal slot  862 , the L-shaped clips  874 ,  878  are pivoted downwardly to constrain the band  14  within the slot  862  and the retaining buttons  906  engage the receiving detents  910  to removably attach the watch module  34  to the band  14 .  
         [0197]     (56) In still a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 51 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes first  914  and second  918  retaining brackets. Each of the retaining brackets  914 ,  918  extends outwardly from the surrounding case  46  in opposite directions parallel to the flexible band  14 . Each of the retaining brackets  914 ,  918  has first  922  and second  926  parallel side plates, the side plates  922 ,  926  are spaced apart by at least the first predetermined width  18  and terminate in an end bar  930  connecting the side plates  922 ,  926 . The surrounding case  46 , each pair of side plates  922 ,  926  and each end bar  930  define an aperture  934  at least twice as long as the first predetermined thickness  22 . First  938  and second  942  securing pins are provided. Each of the pins  938 ,  942  has a shaft  946  at least as long as the first predetermined width  18  and first  950  and second  954  end caps. The ends caps  950 ,  954  are larger than the shaft  946 . The flexible band  14  is located beneath the surrounding case  46  and has loops  958  extending upwardly through the apertures  934 . The securing pins  938 ,  942  are located within the loops  958  and the end caps  950 ,  954  secure the pins  938 ,  942  to the band  14 , removably attaching the watch module  34  to the band  14 .  
         [0198]     (57) In another variant of the invention, the surrounding case  46  includes a horizontal slot  962 . The slot  962  is at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . The horizontal slot  962  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 , the slot  962  has first  968  and second  972  parallel side edges.  
         [0199]     (58) In still another variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 52 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes first  976  and second  980  retaining ledges. Each of the retaining ledges  976 ,  980  extends outwardly from the surrounding case  46  in opposite directions parallel to the flexible band  14 . A retaining clip  984  is provided. The clip  984  is formed of resilient material, is sized and shaped to fit beneath the surrounding case  46  and flexible band  14  and has curved ends  988 . The ends  988  urge loops  992  of the flexible band  14  over the retaining ledges  976 ,  980  and inwardly toward the surrounding case  46 . The curved ends  988  extend upwardly past the ledges  976 ,  980 . The retaining clip  984  removably attaches the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0200]     (59) In yet another variant, the surrounding case  46  includes a horizontal slot  996 . The slot  996  is at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . The horizontal slot  996  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . The slot  996  has first (not shown) and second  1004  parallel side edges.  
         [0201]     (60) In a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 53 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes an attachment sleeve  1008 . The sleeve  1008  has a planar upper portion  1012  and a planar lower portion  1016 . Each of the portions  1012 ,  1016  has an upper surface  1020 , a lower surface  1024 , first  1030  and second  1034  side edges. The upper portion  1012  is attached to the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  and hingedly attached at the first side edge  1030  to the first side edge  1030  of the lower portion  1016 . At least one attachment means  1046  is provided. The attachment  1046  means removably secures the upper portion.  1012  to the lower portion  1016  at the second side edges  1034 . The flexible band  14  is removably secured between the upper portion  1012  and the lower portion  1016 , thereby removably attaching the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0202]     (61) In still a further variant, the attachment means  1046  is selected from the group consisting of snap  1050 , button (not shown), hook and loop fastener (not shown) and slot and turn button fastener (not shown).  
         [0203]     (62) In yet a further variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 54 , the attachment mechanism  50  includes first  1054  and second  1058  receiving bars. Each of the bars  1054 ,  1058  is attached to opposite lower edges  1062 ,  1066  of the surrounding case  46  and spaced outwardly from the case  46  by a pair of support brackets  1070 . A securing strap  1074  is provided. The strap  1074  is formed of flexible material, has a first end  1078 , a second end  1082 , an upper surface  1086  and a lower surface  1090 . The upper surface  1086  has a hooking attachment means  1094  adjacent the first end  1078 . The lower surface  1090  has a loop attachment means  1098  adjacent the second end  1082 . The flexible band  14  is located beneath the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . The securing strap  1074  is looped over the receiving bars  1054 ,  1058  and under the flexible band  14 . The second end  1082  is folded over the first end  1078 , the hooking attachment means  1094  removably engages the loop attachment means  1098  and removably secures the watch module  34  to the flexible band  14 .  
         [0204]     (63) In still a further variant of the invention, the surrounding case  46  includes a horizontal slot  1102 . The slot  1102  is at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18  and substantially as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22 . The horizontal slot  1102  is located in the lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46 . The slot  1102  has first  1106  and second  1110  parallel side edges.  
         [0205]     (64) In a final variant, as illustrated in  FIG. 55 , a subband fastener  1114  is provided. The fastener  1114  is formed of resilient material, cylindrical, has a diameter  1118  less than an outer horizontal dimension  1122  of the watch module  34 . The fastener  1114  has a horizontal slot  1126  at least as wide as the first predetermined width  18 , approximately as deep as the first predetermined thickness  22  and a peripheral lip  1130 . The lip  1130  extends on either side  1134  of the slot  1126 . The lower surface  58  of the surrounding case  46  has a recess  1138 . The recess  1138  is sized, and shaped to receive the peripheral lip  1130  of the subband fastener  1114 .  
         [0206]     The flexible, continuous band  14  is located within the horizontal slot  1126  and the subband fastener  1114  is fitted frictionally into the recess  1138 . The watch module 34  will be removably attached to the band  14 .  
         [0207]     The flexible band with clip-on watch  10  has been described with reference to particular embodiments. Other modifications and enhancements can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims that follow.