Case Study: 4N achieves precise, faster revolutionary watch design with Dassault Systèmes' CATIA V6

Combining creative excellence and engineering prowess with CATIA V6

4N, founded by watchmaker François Quentin, set out to transform an unprecedented mechanical digital-watch concept—large four-digit display driven by complex kinematics—into a robust, efficient and manufacturable luxury timepiece. To achieve that, 4N partnered with Dassault Systemes and used CATIA V6 (along with other V6 solutions) to move beyond sketches and 2D CAD and accurately model the design and interactions of the mechanism.

Dassault Systemes supplied CATIA V6 for full 3D modeling and virtual simulation, supplemented by SIMULIA, DELMIA and 3DVIA for stress testing, assembly validation and virtual presentation. The solution validated the feasibility of the 200+ element mechanism, made it easy to propagate design changes across the assembly, conveyed precise intent to manufacturers and considerably shortened design time, enabling 4N to bring its revolutionary watch concept closer to production.

4N

François Quentin

CEO - Watch Designer