SPECIMEN 01.2

Description

The creation
SPECIMEN 01.2 is a unique watch. It is one of the first times that the tradition of watches with mechanical movements has been combined with the revolutionary technology of metallic 3D printing. Anxious to showcase the talents of our region, UTINAM Besançon, imagined by Philippe Lebru, has rigorously developed the components of this watch. The case of the watch, also known as the caseband, is printed in one piece in additive laser fusion manufacturing on the equipment of the UIMM training centre in Besançon (within its Créativ Lab). Using this technology, the finished piece displays the raw colours of the metal as well as new curved shapes. The hands are made in a century-old factory based in Morteau, and the bracelet, hand-stitched in beautiful brown leather, is the work of a bisontine artisanal company. The assembly of all the components of the watch takes place in the workshops UTINAM Besançon in the heart of the watchmaking city. The UTINAM+STAINLESS+UIMM collaboration As each partner is established at different levels of the production chain: STAINLESS, distributor of raw materials (metal powder for 3D printing), UTINAM, designer of finished products (watches and clocks), UIMM, a training institute in the industrial sector, the partners highlight a collaborative approach focused on innovation. Their capacity for openness and their audacity today lead to the creation of a watch which, beyond its primary function, becomes an ambassador for a new dimension of the value chain. The supplier-customer relationship is eclipsed in favour of a mutual commitment and trust between the three players, relying on the expertise of each.

STAINLESS, a distributor of raw materials (metal powder for 3D printing), UTINAM, a designer of finished products (watches and clocks), and UIMM, a training institute in the industrial sector, the partners highlight a collaborative approach focused on innovation. Their capacity for openness and boldness has led to the creation of a watch which, beyond its primary function, has become an ambassador for a new dimension in the value chain. The supplier-customer relationship is disappearing in favor of a commitment and mutual trust between the three players, drawing on the expertise of each.

The technology
3D printing is a new revolution for the global economy. This innovative technology is being introduced month after month in all sectors of industry. The SPECIMEN 01 watch has been developed in additive manufacturing by laser fusion. This 3D printing process consists of fusing, layer by layer, a fine metal powder (supplied by the company STAINLESS) by the action of a laser. This technology allows the deployment of new, even surprising, geometric shapes that cannot be achieved by conventional manufacturing methods. The aim is to bring creativity and innovation to a demanding technical world.

The elaboration
In order to master the additive manufacturing of this product, Philippe Lebru has surrounded himself with qualified people. The UIMM training centre in Besançon, within its “Créativ Lab”, has a modern 3D printer, allowing the use of metallic raw materials. Teams of trainers, as well as apprentices, are trained in its use and are capable of mastering the production processes necessary for the manufacture of the SPECIMEN01 watch. This training centre was therefore a crucial partner for the smooth running of the project, it participated in the improvement of the watch’s prototypes through its contribution of skills and its instructions concerning the feasibility of the part.

SPECIMEN 01.2 – Origin & manufacture Bisontine