HELSINKI, Finland—Those who can afford Ferraris and Rolex watches will have a new choice in mobile phones, courtesy of Vertu, an independent subsidiary of Nokia launched Monday.
Vertu plans to offer in mid-year a mobile phone costing in excess of $20,000. The phone features more than 400 moving parts, including 18 jeweled bearings, all inside a case of either platinum, 18-karat white gold, 18-karat yellow gold or stainless steel.
The phone also features a hi-fidelity sound system and a scratch-resistant screen made from sapphires.
Vertu said the phone, which it calls an “instrument,” is available only through Vertu Galleries and by personal appointment at Vertu Private Client Suites, located in several of the finest shopping areas around the world.
The company was the idea of Frank Nuovo, head of design for Nokia and now Vertu’s creative director and designer.
