TIMEKEEPER
An exoskeletal, clip-on watch case designed to protect all key features of your beloved timepiece. Inspired by shrapnel covers adorned by soldiers in WWI, the design aims to minimise visual obstruction through the use of a vintage, floral protector.
The continuing success of watches can be attributed to their indisputable value. Value not only in terms of expense, but personal meaning as an heirloom or statement of style. But vintage watches possess a fragility that comes with a risk of damage. So, what if we could wear these beloved items without this constant worry, even if playing sports or engaging in physical activity?
Initial designs
Of all my initial ideas, a clip-on protective watch case interested me the most as a challenging project with commercial potential. Although a mass-produced, injection moulded case would need to fit various case shapes and sizes, I recognised that it would be nearly impossible to make such a product to a high quality within the time provided.
I therefore determined that I would design one for my watch specifically and then develop it into a more versatile case with any remaining time I had. After designing a clipping mechanism that used the angled edge of the bezel to extend around the case, I still felt like the design was missing something...
CRYSTAL COVERS
Inspired by the shrapnel guards used in WWI, these laser cut Medite prototypes are designed to protect the crystal of the watch whilst leaving all key features visible and not detracting from the beautiful workmanship of a watch.
Initially, I only focused leaving the hour markers visible and moving hands, but I came to the realisation that some watches have complications such as a date window or subsidiary dial that the user might desire to remain visible. Thus, I began to conceptualise ways of leaving these features unobstructed. Ultimately, I kept my injection moulded prototype simple as a complex pattern would distort on different watch cases and might not demonstrate the true potential of this design.
From these models, I gained a comprehension of what cover would work aesthetically and functionally. I also learnt what geometrical patterns were stronger and could protect the watch face from more impact.
PROTOTYPING
GUIDANCE PINS
INJECTION POINT
MOULDED PART
AIR VENTS
CAVITY MOULD
MOULDING
I then designed the injection mould using industry-grade CAD software Solidworks 360. The biggest challenge I faced was introducing an undercut without having the mould having a part that enters from a secondary axis. Due to the simplicity of the equipment we were provided with to produce our one-off models, we had to stick to a core and cavity along a vertical axis.
However, I overcame the inability to introduce a side action mould by introducing incisions into the bezel directly above the undercut clips that the mould could slot through. After lots of 3D prototyping to finalise dimensions, I also managed to harness this incision to increase the flexibility of the clips which simplified the attachment of the case onto the watch face.
Guidance pins were included and all edges were drafted to simplify removal from the mould. I also included vent holes to prevent air bubbles from ruining the structural integrity of the moulded part. The injection point diverged into various streams to enable an even flow of liquidised plastic through the mould.
DIMENSIONING
