A rare foray by Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL) into fashion is creating a stir in the world of memorabilia as an exclusive pair of vintage trainers has come up for sale via auction house Sotheby's, with an asking price of $50,000.
The limited-edition sneakers were custom-crafted for Apple employees in the 90s and were distributed during a company conference, never making it to the public market.
The trainers, described as "among the most obscure in existence," are emblazoned with the iconic rainbow Apple logo, a symbol that accompanied Apple's first color-supporting computer in 1977.
This historical artifact is adorned not only on the tongue but also adjacent to the laces, amplifying their appeal among Apple enthusiasts and collectors.
Despite some age-related imperfections such as yellowing around the midsoles, these Omega Sports-made shoes, that remain new in the box, have garnered considerable attention in the resale market. The size 10.5 trainers also come with a bonus pair of red laces, further sweetening the deal.
Some other examples of rare Apple memorabilia have raised a few thousand for their lucky owners.
Last year, a rare Apple Computer cheque from 1976 signed by both Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, for a payment of $3,430 for Apple II components, sold for US$131,138, more than five times its estimated price, while a special edition Bob Marley first-generation iPod Classic, one of only 50 made by Apple, sold for $26,290.
But in the world of hypebeasts and VNDS, super-rare sneakers or trainers make a lot more money.
A pair of Nike Air Jordan XIIIs, game-worn by Michael Jordan in 1998, were sold for US$2.2mln by Sotheby's in April, while the birth of Kanye West's Yeezy brand – before he moved to Adidas and before things turned sour – a pair of Nike Air Yeezy 1 Prototypes worn by West during his performance at the 2008 Grammy Awards, were sold for US$1.8mln in 2021.