Caviar's $15,990 iPhone Duo Incorporates Steve Jobs' Turtleneck Fragment
Limited-edition foldable iPhone features historical memorabilia for Apple collectors.
1Ultra-luxury foldable iPhone
Caviar is offering a $15,990 customized version of Apple's upcoming iPhone Duo, significantly more expensive than Apple's $1,999 base model. The luxury device maker specializes in high-end smartphone customizations, typically using premium materials like leather. This particular edition stands out by incorporating actual fabric from Steve Jobs' iconic black turtleneck, blending technology with historical memorabilia. Only nine units will be produced, each made-to-order with personalized authenticity certificates.
2Jobs tribute design elements
The back panel features a 3D Apple logo with the turtleneck fragment and Jobs' engraved metal signature. Caviar used PVD-coated titanium for the black central panel and polished titanium for the frame with guilloché engraving. Despite the luxury treatment, the phone retains Apple's original hardware including the 5.4-inch outer and 7.6-inch inner folding displays. The design specifically commemorates Apple's 50th anniversary, marked by the '50 Anniversary Edition' lettering.
3Production and delivery process
Caviar begins production only after receiving full payment, with each unit requiring four days of craftsmanship in their workshop before shipping. The company targets collectors who value unique artifacts, positioning this as more than just a smartphone. The limited run of nine units emphasizes exclusivity, with each being individually crafted rather than mass-produced. This approach contrasts with Apple's standard production methods for their mainstream devices.
4Premium packaging details
The iPhone Duo comes in 'Supreme Packaging' featuring a lockable 24K gold-plated case and a leather-and-wood gift box. Included is a 24K gold-plated Caviar coin, adding to the luxury unboxing experience. The packaging design complements the phone's exclusive nature, targeting high-net-worth individuals. These elements combine to create a complete collector's package rather than just a functional device.
5Market positioning strategy
At nearly eight times Apple's price, Caviar targets a niche segment of Apple enthusiasts and memorabilia collectors. The Jobs connection provides emotional value beyond the technical specifications. This follows Caviar's pattern of creating ultra-premium versions of popular devices, though the Jobs memorabilia represents a new approach. The price reflects both the limited availability and the historical significance of the included artifacts.
6Technical specifications
The customized iPhone Duo maintains Apple's original hardware, including the Super Retina XDR displays. Caviar makes no modifications to the internal components, focusing solely on exterior customization. The 7.6-inch unfolded display remains the largest ever on an iPhone. This ensures technical parity with standard models while offering exclusive aesthetic and collectible value.
7Collector's item proposition
Caviar positions this as a historical artifact rather than just a smartphone, leveraging Jobs' legacy. The inclusion of personal items from Apple's co-founder adds unique provenance. The company suggests it appeals to those who appreciate technology history and rare collectibles. This transforms the device from a utilitarian object into a potential museum piece.
8Luxury tech market implications
This release demonstrates how luxury brands can create extreme-value versions of mainstream tech products. The approach combines limited availability, premium materials, and historical connections to justify premium pricing. It also shows how tech memorabilia can command significant value in collector markets. Such products create a new category between functional devices and investment-grade collectibles.