The Vertu Signature: A Classic Feature Phone for the Ages
The Vertu Signature, released in 2003, has become a timeless symbol of luxury and elegance among feature phones. Manufactured by UK-based brand Vertu, known for its high-end and exclusive mobile devices, the Signature boasts a sleek design, impressive specifications, and a hefty price tag to match.
A Look at the Specifications
As a feature phone, the Vertu Signature does not have the advanced capabilities of modern smartphones, but it certainly holds its own when it comes to design and functionality. Weighing in at around 173g to 215g and with a thickness of 15.5mm, the device exudes a sense of quality and robustness. It also comes in two versions, a standard Signature model and a Signature M model, which is heavier due to its use of precious metals like gold and platinum.
In terms of storage, the Signature unfortunately does not have a card slot for external memory, but it does come with a sizable internal storage capacity. The network technology used for the device is GSM, with 2G bands for GSM 900 and 1900. However, it does not support GPRS or EDGE connections.
The Design and Display
The Vertu Signature's design is unmistakably luxurious, with a body made of aircraft-grade aluminum, leather, and sapphire crystal. Its dimensions of 122 x 42 x 15.5mm make it a compact device, fitting perfectly in the palm of your hand. It also features a mini-SIM slot and a scratch-resistant glass display.
The display itself is a TFD (Thin Film Diode) screen with 4096 colors, providing sharp and vibrant images. While it may not compare to the high-resolution displays of today's smartphones, it is still impressive for its time.
Memory and Camera Features
The Vertu Signature does not have a card slot for external memory, but it still manages to offer a significant amount of storage. The phonebook can hold up to 1000 entries, and it also has 220 calendar notes and the ability to store 100 SMS messages. However, it does not have a camera, which may be a disadvantage for those looking for a device with photography capabilities.
Additional Features and Battery Life
The Signature does not have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other modern connectivity features. However, it does come with games, predictive text input, and support for multiple languages including English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, and Chinese. It also has a loudspeaker and supports vibration and polyphonic ringtones.
The device runs on a removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery, providing up to 200 hours of standby time and 8 hours of talk time. While these numbers may not seem impressive now, they were considered decent battery life for feature phones in 2003.
A Piece of History and Luxury
The Vertu Signature was announced in 2003 and has been discontinued, but it remains a coveted and exclusive device among collectors and luxury enthusiasts. Its price upon release was around 5900 EUR, and it still maintains its value as a rare and high-end feature phone.
In conclusion, the Vertu Signature may not have all the bells and whistles of modern smartphones, but it has its own charm and appeal as a classic device from a luxury brand. With its robust design, impressive specifications, and elegant aesthetic, it truly is a signature piece in the history of mobile devices.
