In its attractive tonneau-shaped case, the new Da Vinci from IWC takes aesthetics to a new dimension and will appeal particularly to watch lovers who appreciate the elegance of a watch in a slightly reduced format. The Da Vinci Automatic, available in 18 ct. white gold, 18 ct. rose gold or stainless steel, measures just 35.6 x 42.5 millimetres. With its automatic 30130-calibre movement, it is the ideal everyday companion and, in stark contrast to its miniature size, comes with perhaps that most useful of ancillary displays, a large date. In many small watches, this can often only be read with a magnifying glass and completely misses the point. Featuring a sweep hacking seconds, the Da Vinci is at the cutting edge of modern watchmaking technology. The choice of three case materials, with dials in toning colours, are a declaration of good taste: the classics in 18 ct. rose gold or stainless steel with their silver-plated dials or the discreet reticence of a case in 18 ct. white gold and an ardoise - slate-coloured - dial. All three watches are supplied with a crocodile leather strap and a clasp in the same metal as the case.