Caviar Perna Penna, the Italian premium customization company, made the headlines last year after releasing a gold-plated iPhone, hand engraved with a side portrait of Vladimir Putin.
With the release of flagship iPhone 6S, the Italian brand caught the spotlights again: the Putinphone is back and is even more expensive than the last model. The specs of the iPhone 6S remain unchanged, but the exquisite handset features a complete different design than Apple intended. Putin's profile is gold-encrusted on the back of the device, alongside some lines from the Russian national anthem. Between the verses and the image, the presidential emblem proudly stands.
To project the idea of durable power and impeccable resilience, the metallic chassis of the phone was replaced by a titanium one. It creates a "restrained and somewhat muted" backdrop that contrasts and elevates the shiny gold elements applied on it.
"The essence of a strong, invincible and strong-willed character, inherent to the person who never gives up" is the base concept for the Italian design team's choices. All the traits of titanium - color, texture, and strength - reflect the strong impression that the Russian leader leaves on its peers and minions.
Caviar Ti Gold Supremo Putin "Anniversario Edizione 63" is the official name of the Putinphone. Subtle readers will notice that the ending number is chosen so it honors the age of the supreme leader. To add more meta-content, the producer announced that only 63 phones will see the stores.
Customers that wish to show their (true or pricy ironical) appreciation for the Kremlin commander may order the 64GB version of the device for a lofty price of RUB 199,000. The European price tag reads €2,822 and American one $3,174. Those who want to invest in both style and extra storage space will shell out RUB 209,000 ($3,334 or €2,964) for the 128GB model. The producer of the Putinphone sends its products in a high-class wooden case with Russia's coat of arms on top, and adds a free car charger.
Considering the affinity of Mr. Putin for democracy and free speech, the destiny of the luxury phone in Russia is forked: it will either be banned entirely or made mandatory.
