PARIS, Apr 13, 2007/ FW/ --- The Da Vinci code is not just about solving mathematical problems. The universal genius of the architect, artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci has also inspired the Schaffhausen watchmakers to create a family of watches under the name Da Vinci since 1970.

And as homage to its muse, IWC Schaffhausen will be presenting the lavishly produced play, ‘Serata di Leonardo’ on April 17, 2007 during the SIHH Watch Fair in Geneva. As a highlight, Academy Award winning actor Kevin Spacey will take to the stage exclusively for IWC with his own theatrical piece. The short film of this performance will then have its own online world premiere on 16 May.

For an entire festive evening, the spirit of Leonardo da Vinci will permeate the 1,200 international guests, who have been invited into the world of the Renaissance in honor of the horological new products from IWC.

In order to do full justice to the epoch, which like no other has stimulated a cultural revival and innovative research, IWC has produced its own "Serata di Leonardo" set in a glamorous Florentine palazzo, which reflects the classical style of the Medici. Against this historical backdrop, the watches of the new Da Vinci generation will celebrate a magnificent premiere.

However, one of the principal characters could steal the show completely from the attractive horological innovations. IWC is particularly proud to have secured the services of Oscar winner Kevin Spacey for a live performance. Not only has the actor produced a short stage play especially for IWC and exclusively for this event, he has also taken it upon himself to play the leading role during its first performance.

Thandie Newton, a star in her own right with appearances in films including "Mission Impossible 2" and "Crash" to her credit, will appear at his side in the leading female role. This show is being staged in an amphitheatre that has been built specially for this momentous event.

The play "Leo and Lisa" will also be recorded live on this evening. On 16 May 2007, the lavish production will go online as a short film on the Web site of IWC, in order to make its world premiere accessible to a wide public.

For more information: www.iwc.com