Uniform Wares designs and makes luxury watches which are prompted by traditional processes. However, as Michael Carr, creative director at Uniform Wares said, the company also likes to “push things forward.”
So, for the company’s latest design, it decided to embrace technology innovations in the form of 3D printing. They chse Betatype, an additive manufacturing company operating since 2012, as a business partner. Together, the two companies came up with a unique 3D printed titanium watch strap design.
“We were already using 3D printing to develop plastic – and some metal – prototypes, so when Betatype explained that they could help us to achieve more accurate and intricate designs , we were interested… The idea that Betatype was using a new technology that would mean less waste and new materials was hugely appealing,” Carr adds.
Previously, Uniform Wares had created a mesh bracelet which required cumbersome machinery and cutting and welding processes, resulting in lots of waste.
However, with 3D printing, Betatype pointed out that it’s possible to create a similar bracelet for less effort. Not only does the technology reduce waste and use less material, it also simplifies the entire process.
Creating the Woven Watch Strap with 3D Printing for the new PreciDrive M-Line Collection
Uniform Wares decided to create a lightweight, woven watch strap in a similar style to the mesh bracelet. This new T5 titanium strap was to be used for the new PreciDrive M-Line watch collection.
To create the straps, Betatype used a laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) metal additive manufacturing process. The resulting strap is made of more than 4,000 links. It provides a strong, lightweight structure and weighs just 10.5 grams.
By creating the strap using additive manufacturing, it’s possible to incorporate a directional clasp design which interlocks with the weave of the strap itself. Betatype points out that this could not be achieved with more traditional methods.
“Every element of the bracelet has been engineered exactly as it needs to work. The radius at which it curves, the flexibility and stiffness at each point – every link incorporates fine adjustments. It represents bespoke engineering at every point,” Carr explains.
With 3D printing, not only is the amount of waste reduced, but the company can also create a watch strap on demand, rather than having to order thousands in advance which is a “gamechanger”.
After a successful collaboration, the two companies are already talking about what their next project will be. Learn more about Betatype and Uniform Wares by visiting their respective websites.
Source: Press Release
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