Introduction
The Vertu Signature Cobra is a luxury mobile phone that was released in 2017 by the British company Vertu. The phone is known for its unique design and high price tag, making it a status symbol for the wealthy.
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 2-inch QVGA |
| Processor | 1.3GHz quad-core MediaTek |
| RAM | 2GB |
| Storage | 16GB, expandable up to 128GB with microSD card |
| Operating System | Android 5.1 (customized version) |
| Rear Camera | 13MP |
| Front Camera | 2MP |
| Battery | 1,930mAh |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Materials | Stainless steel, leather, sapphire crystal |
| Design | Cobra snake design made of 439 rubies and 2 emeralds |
| Price | $360,000 |
| Limited Edition | 8 units |
Design and Features
The Signature Cobra is made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel, leather, and sapphire crystal. The phone features a cobra snake design on the back, which is made of 439 rubies and two emeralds. The snake design wraps around the phone, creating a three-dimensional effect that adds to its uniqueness.
The phone has a 2-inch QVGA display and runs on a 1.3GHz quad-core MediaTek processor. It comes with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, which is expandable up to 128GB with a microSD card. The Signature Cobra runs on a modified version of Android 5.1, which has been customized to match the phone’s design and features
Pricing and Availability
The Vertu Signature Cobra is a limited edition phone, with only eight units made. Each phone is individually numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity. The phone was priced at $360,000 when it was released, making it one of the most expensive mobile phones in the world.
History of Vertu and the Signature Collection
Vertu is a British luxury mobile phone manufacturer that was founded in 1998 by Nokia. The company’s goal was to create high-end phones with exclusive features and materials, targeting the affluent market. The Signature Collection was one of the most popular series produced by Vertu, with the Signature Cobra being one of the most notable phones in this line.
The Signature Collection was known for its unique and extravagant designs, which often incorporated precious materials such as diamonds and gold. These phones were marketed as luxury accessories, with prices ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The Inspiration Behind the Signature Cobra
The Vertu Signature Cobra was designed by French jewelry designer Boucheron, who took inspiration from the Chinese Year of the Snake. The cobra design on the back of the phone was created using 439 rubies and two emeralds, and took over 100 hours to handcraft.
The cobra’s eyes are made of emeralds, and its body is made of rubies, with black enamel used for the snake’s scales. The result is a stunning, three-dimensional design that is both elegant and striking.
Controversy and Bankruptcy of Vertu
Despite the Vertu Signature Cobra’s unique design and exclusivity, the company faced numerous controversies and financial difficulties. In 2017, Vertu was sold by Nokia to a Chinese firm, after experiencing a decline in sales due to the rise of smartphones and competition from other luxury brands.
However, the Chinese firm was unable to turn the company around, and Vertu declared bankruptcy in 2018. The company’s assets were sold off, including its intellectual property and design rights.
Final Thoughts
The Vertu Signature Cobra may be a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, but it also represents the excesses and shortcomings of the luxury phone market. While it may have been a coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts, the phone’s high price tag and limited functionality ultimately led to the downfall of its manufacturer. Nevertheless, the Signature Cobra remains a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of its designers and makers.
Conclusion
The Vertu Signature Cobra is a unique and luxurious mobile phone that appeals to those who value exclusivity and design. While its high price tag may put it out of reach for most people, it remains a highly coveted item among collectors and enthusiasts.
FAQs
What makes the Vertu Signature Cobra unique?
The Vertu Signature Cobra is known for its distinctive cobra snake design on the back, which is made of 439 rubies and two emeralds. The snake design wraps around the phone, creating a three-dimensional effect that adds to its uniqueness. The phone is also made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel, leather, and sapphire crystal.
How much does the Vertu Signature Cobra cost?
The Vertu Signature Cobra was priced at $360,000 when it was released, making it one of the most expensive mobile phones in the world. However, due to its limited availability and exclusivity, the phone’s price may vary depending on the market.
How many units of the Vertu Signature Cobra were made?
Only eight units of the Vertu Signature Cobra were made, each individually numbered and coming with a certificate of authenticity.
Who designed the Vertu Signature Cobra?
The Vertu Signature Cobra was designed by French jewelry designer Boucheron, who took inspiration from the Chinese Year of the Snake.
What happened to Vertu?
Vertu faced financial difficulties and was sold by Nokia to a Chinese firm in 2017. However, the company was unable to turn its fortunes around, and Vertu declared bankruptcy in 2018. The company’s assets were subsequently sold off, including its intellectual property and design rights.
