17 Reasons Why Jony Ive’s $4,800 Sailing Lantern Is the Ultimate Designer Flex of 2025
Hey, design lovers! If you thought Jony Ive—yes, the genius behind Apple’s sleek iPhones and iconic Mac Pros—was done revolutionizing our world, think again! The former Apple design guru and founder of LoveFrom just dropped a stunning new creation: the Sailing Lantern, crafted in partnership with Japanese brand Balmuda. Unveiled today, September 27, 2025, at the Monaco Yacht Show, this $4,800 masterpiece is turning heads and sparking debates. Is it a luxury must-have or a nautical flex too far? Let’s break it down with 17 reasons this lantern might just light up your life (or at least your Instagram feed)!
1. It’s a Throwback with a Twist
Inspired by 19th-century seafaring lanterns, this beauty blends vintage vibes with modern swagger. Jony’s taking us back to the high seas—without the scurvy!
2. That Price Tag Though!
At $4,800 for one of the 500 limited-edition units, it’s not exactly pocket change. But hey, if you’ve got VC cash burning a hole in your wallet, this is the ultimate founder gift!
3. Mac Pro Deja Vu
Mark Gurman from Bloomberg nailed it—those gold-accented metal frames scream 2019 Mac Pro. Jony’s signature style is alive and well, proving you can’t take Apple out of the man!
4. Glow Goals
With up to 50 hours of warm LED light, this lantern is perfect for cozy nights—or impressing your yacht crew. Sustainability meets luxury, thanks to efficient LED tech!
5. Stainless Steel Sexy
The lantern’s polished stainless steel body is a work of art. It’s like a spaceship landed on a pirate ship— sleek, shiny, and oh-so-durable.
6. Borosilicate Glass Brilliance
That accordion-like glass? Made from heat-resistant borosilicate, it’s not just pretty—it’s built to withstand the wildest maritime adventures.
7. Gold Accents = Instant Flex
Those golden touches aren’t just for show—they elevate this lantern to a status symbol. Move over, designer watches—this is the new flex!
8. Leather Handle Love
The textured polyester lanyard with a leather handle adds a tactile luxe feel. Carry it like a boss—or hang it like a pro!
9. Monaco Yacht Show Debut
Unveiled at one of the poshest events of the year, this lantern is already rubbing elbows with billion-dollar boats. Talk about an A-list entrance!
10. Jony’s Nautical Nostalgia
In a Financial Times interview, Ive shared his childhood love for sailing. This lantern is basically a love letter to the ocean—aww!
11. Limited Edition Hype
Only 500 units exist, making it the ultimate collector’s item. Better act fast before it’s gone faster than a TikTok trend!
12. Perfect for Instagram
Those prismatic light effects? They’re begging for a #LanternAesthetic post. Your followers will be obsessed.
13. Eco-Friendly Vibes
With LED tech cutting energy use by up to 75% (per the Journal of Light & Visual Environment, 2018), it’s a green glow you can feel good about.
14. Balmuda’s Magic Touch
Partnering with Japan’s Balmuda, known for sleek appliances, adds a layer of craftsmanship that’s out of this world.
15. The Haters Gonna Hate
Some X users are calling it overpriced or self-indulgent (looking at you, @imthaz!). But isn’t that part of the fun? Controversy sells!
16. A Designer’s Dream
From the MoMA-worthy aesthetic to its precision engineering, this lantern is a lovechild of form and function—classic Jony.
17. Will It Sell Out?
With buzz already building on X and beyond, this might be the holiday gift that breaks the internet. Snag one before March 2026 shipping—or cry into your Coleman lantern!
The Verdict
Love it or laugh at it, Jony Ive’s Sailing Lantern is more than a light—it’s a statement. At $4,800, it’s not for everyone, but for design enthusiasts, yacht owners, or anyone who wants to channel their inner Steve Jobs, it’s a glowing opportunity. What do you think—worth the splurge or a nautical no-no? Drop your hot takes in the comments, and don’t forget to share this with your fanciest friend! 🌟⛵
