Russians Prepare Gem-Studded Nokia 8800

The wealthy elite of Russia’s new capitalism seem to have been trying to make up for seventy years of communist dreariness by going completely over the top on their conspicuous spending. The gem-studded "Monaco" Nokia 8800 below is one such example of the post-communism Tsarist (And Then Some) mindset of the well-heeled Russian.

Yes, many of them may have got their money in a dubious fashion after the fall of the Red regime. Yes, if they didn’t have such burly bodyguards with them all the time you might be tempted to punch them in the face after five minutes of conversation. But hey, look on the bright side : At least if we flood Russia with extremely expensive luxury items they’re less likely to spend money on expensive arms races.

Wah wah wah. The Scandinavian Nokia empire can rest a little easier knowing that Russia can’t afford more than a dozen new T-90’s a year while the place is awash with gem-encrusted phones. The phone will go on sale in Russia later in March.