Abstract: A closure for connecting a first and a second free end of a band such as a watch strap that in use is maintained in tension by hoop stresses imposed on the band by the banded object, the closure including a first clasp element having a first hook member and a second, oppositely-directed and shorter hook member, and a separable second clasp element having first and second hook-engaging members for slidably and releasably engaging said hook members such that the engagement of both hook members with their respective hook-engaging members is possible only by first engaging the first hook member with the corresponding hook-engaging member, sliding the first hook-engaging member deep into the throat of the first hook member, then engaging the second hook member with the second hook-receiving member while partially disengaging the first hook-engaging member from the first hook member, wherein said opposing tensions acting through the first and second clasp elements maintain complete engagement of the second hook whi

Abstract: A closure, buckle, or clasp for connecting two free ends of a strap, a belt, a necklace, or a harness is disclosed that relies upon a mechanical keeper to at least aid in keeping the closure in an engaged condition, wherein the mechanical keeper is of magnetic material and is biased in a locked position by means of the force field of a magnet, thereby eliminating all springs or snug-fitting elements that could wear or lose their effectiveness over time. The magnetic keeper and the magnet may be parts of the same clasp element or they may be parts in separate clasp elements that are joined to effect closure of the clasp.

Abstract: A novel closure or buckle for a band as might be used as a watchband, a bracelet, a necklace, or like article is disclosed. The closure requires no springs, biasing devices, nor snugly fitting members to remain closed. The closure employs a keyhole-type slot to receive a linking member and features a slide element engaged by the linking member within the keyhole slot, which slide element follows the inserted linking member as it slides into the narrow end of the slot thereby blocking the larger end of the slot to provide a smooth appearance to the closure in its latched position.