TimeOut

Vertu Signature - Candid Perspectives from a Watch Lover

Introduction

Mentioning to a random person the phone brand Vertu would most probably either result in 1) incomprehension, or 2) acknowledgement yet subtle ridicule. The former occurs because unlike mass market cell-phone brands,Vertu remains relatively obscure and exclusive due to its astronomical price tags and selective points of sale. The latter because for those that know of its existence, most would think that one has to be out of his mind or juststruck oil rich, to blow an average of $10,000 (or more, in many countries withluxury tax) on a phone.

I have to admit that for a long long time, I held the opinion of the latter group. Granted, that I am the type of person who would spend sums worth more than most people's cars on watches without blinking, yet I still could not grasp why anyone would shell out so much on a phone that is doomed to be an obsolete product, and doesn't even offer muchfunctions? Hence, although I did very occasionally venture into Vertu boutiques around the world to look at these products, mostly out of curiosity, I never really "connected" with them. I viewed it as a product geared towards the newly minted and ultra-excited rich, towards those that would buy a bright yellow Lamborghini, those who want to scream "look at me"... For me, a premium priced product built purely on empty prestige, instead of honest quality, is not interesting, and does not fit the "Purist" way.

I never thought that I would ever own a Vertu....

Until one day....  I received in the mail a slightly used Vertu Signature as a gift from a relative. Apparently he has decided to upgrade his phone to an even more outrageous version.

So there I have it - a superexpensive phone that I never really believed in... 

A search on the Internet shows up only press releases rife with bloated adjectives such as "exclusive","precious", "lifestyle", and oh, yes "luxury". Aside from the technical information, there is almost no comprehensive user reviews, hence offering very little "honest" opinion of substance forcurious onlookers and potential buyers.  I thought I needed to put it to good use, and consequentlyshare my observations and thoughts with the Purists community. Hopefully it willfacilitate a better understanding of the product and shed some light onto this sparsely discussed topic.  As far as I know, this might be the first candid Vertu phone review on the Internet.

 

Background 

So story has it that a little over ten years ago, Franck Nuovo, the head of design at Nokia, lounging by a poolside in Los Angeles, glanced at his hand-made Swiss watch, picked up his hand-crafted fountain pen, looked up at his hand-built sports car, all in content... until... he heard his mobile ring and pulled out his mass-produced phone. The material felt cheap and disposable, lacked any reassuring weight, and tacky to the touch. Nuovo thought, why can't a phone, a device that we use many times throughout the day, be of the same top quality as our other prized belongings?

Thus, with the financial support from Nokia, Vertu is born.

Contrast to mass produced phones, Vertu phones are all hand assembled in a watch manufacture-like facility in the Hampshire countryside,outside of London. Each phone is carefully hand-finished and adheres to strict quality control standards.

The Vertu Signature M was originally introduced in 2002 as the first Vertu model, and is currently at the top of the lineup, with special focus on painstaking craftmanship and quality. Since its inception, it has gone through 2 major changes, the first in 2006, where the external antenna was removed and hardware upgraded; and in late 2008, where the new Signature S was introduced, sporting a sleeker silhouette, Quad-band (as compared to Tri-band model in the review), and even better hardware (e.g. 4 gigabyte of memory). 

 

Overview, Packaging and Presentation

The model in this review is the Signature M, with the new hardware upgrade as of 2006. The Signature M supposedly embodies the essence of Vertu's top quality promise. Alongside the new Signature S, it is still the current model and is sold in boutiques at the retail price of US $11,000. The packaging is large and heavy. It measures 11.5 inches by 7.5 inches, and is lined with fabric. The weight reminds me of those large wooden watch boxes with all the hardcover booklets and accessories inside.

   

    

Sliding out are two blocks of solid and heavy composite material enclosures with "invisible magnets". The phone sits in the soft leather mould in the middle, and the magnets would ensure that the two blocks would shut perfectly aligned. Pretty ingenious.

   

    

The presentation is redundantly exquisite for a phone, but appropriate for an expensive object. 

 

 

Sliding Tray with earphone and battery compartment release key.

   

 

 

4 different regional chargers, with a detachable chargercable. The chargers allow 100 to 240 volt, so you are covered globally.

    

Concierge Booklet, Quick Guide, Certificate of Ownership, and User Manual.

   

    

It's supposed to come with a Com-port data cable and CD-Rom software. But since nobody uses Com-port anymore, my gift giver stored them and eventually lost them. 

    

Functionalities (or lack of)

The Signature is not known for wide range of functionality (it is actually KNOWN for not having much). It features basic applications such as Alarm Clock, Calculator, Calendar, Converter, Notes, Synchronization,To-Do List, Voice Recorder, Message, and World Clock. It has no camera feature. It contains 9.6 MB of internal memory, and users can store a maximum of 1000 contacts, 220 calendar notes, and 100 SMS text messages.

Theoretically, one can also access email through POP3, IMAP4, and SMTP protocols, and browse the web. But these features are old and difficult to use compared to iPhone or Blackberry with more easy to use keypads.

Softwares can also be downloaded and transferred via a Com-port cable. But again, even if I have a Com-port cable, I wouldn't be able to use it on my computer (or most other computers) anymore. 

In a nutshell, compared to other smart phones on the market, the Signature M doesn't do much else other than calling. Also, since it essentially doesn't connect to any computer, it can't download any games or new applications. I guess it's meant for the people who only need to use the phone for its main functionality. (Unfortunately, this phone cannot be upgraded to keep up with newer technology, hence would be rendered obsolete and would be money down the drain, but more on this later...)

 

 

 

Audio

Audio-wise, Vertu has a beautiful sound. It has a 20 mm AKG speaker and Yamaha sound system. Hidden behind the back plating, a specially designed acoustic cavity projects robust tonal qualities for superior high-fidelity audio through a Vertu logo V-shaped speaker hole.The tone is very clean, rich, crisp, and does sound a lot better than standard mobile phone speakers.

 

 

The "famous" concierge button. 

The "concierge button" on the left side actslike a speed dial. By pressing it, you dial an UK based number (there is also a 1-800 US number available), which would connect you to the Vertu concierge division. After verifying your identity and the serial number, you would then be able to make the concierge service request (free only for the first year, afterwards it will be 950 GBP per year). Contrary to the mysterious aura placed by Vertu marketing, there isn't anything special about the Vertu concierge service, compared to other concierge service offered by American Express credit cards or higher-end Visa/Mastercard.

Curious about the quality of the concierge service, I called the the US toll-free concierge number. Instead of getting a good natured and well-trained service specialist as one would expect, I was met,on the other line, with a slightly disgruntled, impatient, half-awake customer representative with a East European accent. After I explained that I am not theoriginal owner, and would like to know how to transfer the title under my name,the representative did not feel like explaining it to me and the tone quickly deteriorated (she even raised her voice a few times).

Maybe others have had better experiences, but mybrief and only encounter with the concierge service left a slightly bad taste in my mouth.

All in all, I find it quite fluffy that Vertu's advertising focuses on the concierge as its main selling point, especially when it is not any more special than the concierge service that Vertu's potential customers might already be getting through their credit cards companies. The one-button speed dial to an UK number (cannot be changed) also does not make much sense in countries other than U.K.

 

 

The Built and Materials

Honestly speaking, the Vertu Signature M is quite well-made, solid (weighs 170 grams with battery), and has a lot of features/materials that a watch lover would understand and appreciate.

    Front

Overall, the design of the front is very strong and angular. The entire front side, from the top of the LCD screen to the bottom of the keypads, are made from 69 carats of scratch resistant sapphire crystal.The stainless keys are polished, forming a nice contrast with the brushed finish of the rims. Unfortunately, the polished keys are easily scratched if one does not have the habit of keeping the phone in a protective pouch after each use, as one can see from this example.

  

  

  

The 35mm by 47mm LCD screen utilizes Epson's Crystal Fine Technology and offers good clarity under a wide array of viewing conditions.

Underneath the stainless steel keys are 2 synthetic ruby bearings per key. The result are very precise key presses and a very solid and pleasant metallic clicking sound (Vertu claims that it took theR&D team 3 years to come up with the "perfect click").

The ear pillow is made of ceramic, which warms up quickly to the touch, making it supposedly comfortable for the ear when talking. The Vertu logo is applied onto the ceramic pillow using PVD process.

 

 

Rim

The rims are surrounded by fine black leather. On the left is the concierge speed-dial button,  on the right are volume adjustments. The triangular power-on/ring-mode button is on the top.

 

 

 

 

The slot on the bottom is for charger and earphone.

 

 

Back

The back plate of the Vertu Signature uses a scratch-resistant fusion of zirconia ceramic and titanium, which is partly translucent to emulates the luster of lacquered wood. I must say it looks quite nice and very reflective.

 

 

On the stainless steel plate, we have the V-shaped logo speaker phone vent, the serial numbers, and the lock for opening the battery cover. One can use the accompanied screwdriver-like battery cover release key, or simply using the finger nail.

 

 

 

Inside

The battery is the standard 950 mAh Li-Ion Battery.

 

   

The inner side of the back-plate has large perlage decoration, reminiscent of well finished watch movement.

 

Final thoughts

I thoroughly understand that Vertu Signature's focus is not on functionality but rather on craftmanship. I think they've done a good job in making a well-finished, well-designed and solid phone, with interesting interplay of quality materials.

However, given that fact that the phone is only 2 years old yet already trails the technologies many phone of the same era (for example, the lack of USB connectivity), I cannot help but to wonder when will this phone be obsolete, and what upgrade options are available to its owners when it gets to this point?

I asked Vertu boutique whether this phone can be upgraded to keep up with the trend in technology. The answer is no.

Hence, the Vertu Signature, with no way to keep up with the changing paradigm in cellphone technology, and especially with its lack of reasonable connectivity, will probably be a dinosaur in a few years. From what Vertu tells me, the current owners will have no way to recoup their investment. This fate seems to eventually apply to all the Vertu phone.

The company and the press often compare Vertu to fine watch-making. However, mechanical watches and even quartz watches do not need to be replaced every few years to be usable, as the technologies needed to operate in them are self-contained, and do not rely on the external technological changes.

So the question is: "Does it make sense to buy a Vertu phone?". I guess the answer depends on who you are asking this question to. I believe that even for relatively well-heeled, and quality-focused watch collectors, the idea of spending over $11,000 on a phone, only to render it an unusable junk in a few years time, would sound absolutely preposterous. But I guess if you are wildly rich, and can afford to throw it away just like we throw away a $100 plastic phone without blinking, then maybe it does make sense.

Maybe that's the customer segment that Vertu' is after... 

I sincerely wish that Vertu can find a way to treat their existing customers with better product continuity, instead of letting their expensive purchases go to waste. It will be a waste of precious craftmanship and material, as well as waste of emotions.

What a well-made phone! Only if I wish it's a mechanical object, instead of a phone!

Hope you've enjoyed the review.

 

Truly yours,

Jon (Z3)

[typographic edits only - MTF]

This message has been edited by MTF on 2009-06-06 22:51:40 This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2009-06-07 09:40:11 This message has been edited by DRMW on 2009-06-11 08:19:22

Nice meeting you at dinner in NY last month and I enjoyed the opportunity to handle your Vertu in the metal.   Good looking device, felt great in the hand with very precise and satisfying clicking of the keys.

The company is clearly making their mobile phone products in the same vein as luxury watch manufacturers.  Still, for me, it would be difficult to give up the functionality of a modern day smartphone.  Guess I'm just stuck carrying around a disposable piece of plastic.

Regards,
Tom

Plastic phones certainly have their advantages (weight being a major one!). I always carry my blackberry.

It was very interesting to read your review, as I don't know anyone who actually owns a Vertu phone, so have never heard any end user comments about them.  They have always seemed to be more about form than function, and your review reinforces that concept for me.  I think they are lovely objects, particularly the Vertu in Damascus steel, but I'm pretty happy with my cheap, mass-produced smart phone! 

Cheers,
Daos

I wonder why Verty is not releasing a kinda communicator, like Nokia had
a few years ago,
the 9300 and 9500. (forget the current E90)
These machine are very good with email and internet and even had FAX send and receive.
The 9300 is smaller than most Vertu's.
Many guys won't give up their smartphone, I find that hard too, but I am sure that when a
phone like the 9300 would be released it will be a hit.
GEO

Making the phone as simple as possible, even though they COULD make it sophiscated.

I tend to think of it as a replacement for a house phone. If you think like this, then you won't get disappointed=)

Jon

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Hello Jon!

Thanks for the hands on review.  Maybe try to ask for a Mandarin speaking person next time and see if they can help or stop by a authorized dealer and see if you can send it in for reprogramming of the concierge button to that of the U.S. one.  Also check if you can get the person's name that provided bad service and complain.

It will be interesting to see if they can get some Lakers Finals tickets or a last minute reservation at Charlie Trotters.

-MW

Unfortunately, I didn't see any in the two boutiques here in New York (Plaza hotel and Nokia store).

Maybe I will bring my phone to Beijing in the near future.=)

Thanks for the recommendation.

and great read.
I love these phones, especially the regular Ascent, which is also more affordable.
And I know myself; I have been eying these machines for so long,
one day I will have mine.
Probably when I have canseled my landline and have the mobile phone as my only phone.
Thanks for posting! Enjoyed it.
GEO

Does it feel too heavy in the pocket? I carry my mobile in my pocket so heavy phones are a no-no.

- SJX

Nowadays I carry two phone with me, and use the other one for text.

So it's quite cumbersome sometimes.

Jon

After seeing the phone in person I agree with your comments. I can appreciate the quality and workmenship of the phone but wouldn't consider purchasing one until they became upgradable. Thanks for the post.

Tony

Glad that you liked its appearance.

nt

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I've never liked the unupgradeable feature of the Vertu and cause of it, I'd only buy one if I were filthy rich and money were no issue.  The target client for the Vertu seems to be  for the wealthy man who does not want to be bothered with the constant barrage of daily emails.  One who only wants a phone to make phone calls and that's it - nothing else and nothing more.

Thanks for the review of the phone.  You should give their concierge service a test and see if they come through!  I used the Centurion service once to get a watch and they pulled through big time for me.

Cheers,
Anthony

is like a century in other businesses. I got my new Palm Pre yesterday and it is great!
I guess I will stick to the plastic stuff.

Did you get the touchstone?  Any heating issues with it?  I'm thinking of getting one and very interested in your opinions.

-MW

My life is simple and I really couldn't think of anything that would require Concierge...

Perhaps I can ask them to get me the next Limited Edition AP ROO, at list price?

Jon

.

I shared many of your sentiments about the Vertu phone when it first debuted in 2002.  Who in their right mind would buy such a phone? 

However, after seeing its seductive craftsmanship, I am somewhat warming up to the allure of the Vertu phone.  I am one of those technologically challenged people, who does not use text messages nor email on my phone so perhaps this exquisitely crafted but simple phone probably fits the bill for me. 

Very comprehensive review and thank you for showing pictures about the packaging and telling usabout the concierge service.  I'm not pleased with my higher-end WorldPoints World MasterCard concierge so I probably won't see any substantial improvement using the Vertu concierge that costs 950 pounds sterling per annum. 

Great phone, but at just too great a price.  In my opinion, it is the best luxury phone on the market (and a triumph in marketing).  Let's see if anyone on PuristS acquires the new Ulysse Nardin phone. 

The Vertu, the Tag Heuer Meridiist, and the UN phone are all quite interesting.

Check out some of the promotional videos of the Tag Heuer phone on youtube

And great review. Well done.

No message body

I have always wondered what the Vertu was like.  For that kind of $$ the screws on the back should line up. 

I think a Palm Pre is in my future, I want all the options.  Just waiting for the first reviews before I jump in, I hope it is a great phone.  I miss my Palm 755p.

Good eye! But the phone was banged around for a few years prior to its passing down to me. So maybe it got damaged?

I will look into it.

Thanks for bringing it up.

All of my work comes through my phone and I was working very long hours, so this was a treat to myself that I have never regretted.


As a phone it was fabulous, being a pleasure to hold and use, and many times more durable than any other phone of its time. I dropped mine on concrete many times with only superficial scratches resulting. Judging by my previous record with plastic phones I would have gone through 3-5 phones in the time I used my Vertu, so, at HK$30k it wasn't too much of an excessive purchase. Unfortunately, phones were rapidly becoming more than just talking devices.

However, I did resent the original premise of the phone that it would be upgradeable for life. The upgrades I did get were small, expensive and way out of date compared even with Nokia's other phones; even the operating system was sluggish. I asked repeatedly if further upgrades would be forthcoming and was told no. Once the iphone3G came along I gave in and switched. I still miss the feel of the phone and the (genuinely) special feel of the keys. It's only my spare these days but fondly remembered.

I am disappointed to hear that.
One would think that a company like Vertu would do system upgrades frequently.
A top phone like this should remain a top phone for at least 5 years.
Geo

The upgrade issue is a pain.

But sounds like you've had a nice run with the Ascent=)

Jon