1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to bracelets and other like jewelry articles, and is concerned in particular with non-expansible linkage bracelets of the type used with wrist watches and the like.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In the known non-expansible linkage bracelets of the type disclosed for example in U.S. Pat. No. 4,245,461 (Bert), a set of laterally adjacent top links is interlocked with a set of laterally adjacent bottom links. In addition to serving as basic structural components of the bracelet, the top links also serve the added function of providing the bracelet with an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Thus, the top links usually are decoratively shaped and/or embossed, as well as being plated with a precious metal such as for example gold or silver.
The functional duality of the top links presents the manufacturer with several problems. For example, because the top links are part of the basic bracelet structure, they must have sufficient thickness and strength to withstand normal usage. However, such thicknesses make it impractical to provide the top links with rolled gold plate material. Instead, the top links usually are electroplated, which considerably complicates the manufacturing process in addition to increasing unit costs. Also, because of the ever changing decorative designs of the top links, it is often difficult if not impossible to manufacture them in economically large quantities. This adds still further to the unit costs of the bracelets.