Nokia release 18-carat gold Oro phone

Here’s one for those with some extra cash to burn, or perhaps those who have an expensive taste.

Nokia has launched the new “Oro” mobile phone; a handset laden with 18-carat gold plating, sapphire and high-grade leather. It’s basically the standard Symbian software-based Nokia C7 dressed up. Some might say mutton dressed as lamb..

The front casing, buttons is covered with an 18-carat gold plating, the home button is crafted from sapphire and the rear casing is adorned with Caledonian leather. Classy, no?

Nokia claim that the Oro is aimed at customers in Russia and the Middle East (we wonder why). Nokia’s General Manager for Russia Gabriel Speratti said “We have a large number of users who are looking for products with a build quality and superior materials that attest to their success and social standing” and followed up with “In some areas, possession of such premium products is the passport to being taken seriously.”

The Oro will go on sale in Europe, Eastern Europe, China and the Middle East in Q3, priced “upwards of €800 ($1,122).

Got plenty of money to burn and thinking about getting the Oro? Let us know what you think of the handset via our Twitter page!