11 Things the Super Rich Buy That You’ve Never Heard Of
Written by
Cindy Lamothe
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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We all have this image in our mind of what rich people spend their money on: taking multiple vacations a year, visiting exotic places and buying all the fun devices you can think of. But as it turns out, they also spend their wealth on things you’ve likely never heard of.
“While many of us might dream of an exotic holiday or a luxury car, the super-rich can indulge in experiences and possessions on a whole different level,” said Kevin Huffman, owner of Kriminil Trading.
“For the very high-end, exclusive experiences might include space travel, deep-sea expeditions or private gigs with famous musicians. Such activities provide exclusivity and adventure that money simply can’t buy.”
Here are a few things the ultra-rich buy that you’ve never heard of.
Space-Based Memorial Services
Space-based memorial services have become an elite way to commemorate loved ones, according to Abid Salahi, finance expert and co-founder of FinlyWealth.
“Companies like Celestis offer to launch a portion of cremated remains into Earth orbit, lunar orbit or even deep space,” Salahi said. “These cosmic farewells can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $12,500 per gram of remains, with full-service packages reaching up to $500,000.”
Pet Cloning
The those who are well off might be willing to try more bizarre investments, such as pet cloning Huffman said.
“Although cloning is still uncommon, some people will spend large amounts of money to preserve the genetic material of their pets,” he said.
He added that this practice not only offers a unique way of maintaining the relationship with a deceased pet, but it also comes with a whole new set of ethical and emotional complexities.
Doomsday Bunkers
Exclusive doomsday bunkers are the ultimate insurance policy for the paranoid wealthy.
“Luxury survival complexes like the Oppidum in the Czech Republic offer fortified underground residences with pools, theaters and hydroponic gardens,” Salahi said. “These apocalypse-ready havens can cost upwards of $10 million for a modest unit, with larger ‘survival condos’ fetching prices over $50 million.”
Personal Submarines
According to Salahi, personal submarine ownership has become a status symbol among the yacht-owning elite.
“Companies like Triton Submarines offer custom-built submersibles capable of diving to extreme depths,” Salahi said. “A basic model costs around $2.5 million, but fully customized versions with luxury interiors and advanced research capabilities can exceed $35 million.”
Bespoke Weather Modification Services
These services cater to ultra-wealthy individuals looking to ensure perfect conditions for outdoor events.
“Companies employ cloud seeding techniques to induce or prevent rainfall,” Salahi explained. “While costs vary, reports suggest that a rain-free wedding or other significant event can cost upwards of $150,000.”
Micronation Creation
Micronation creation services assist wealthy individuals in establishing their sovereign territories.
“While not internationally recognized, these vanity nations often have their flags, currencies, and passports,” Salahi said. “Claiming and developing a remote island into a personal country can easily exceed $10 million, not including ongoing maintenance and security expenses.”
Custom DNA-Based Perfumes
Custom DNA-based perfumes represent the pinnacle of personalized luxury, Salahi added.
“Genetic analysis creates a scent uniquely suited to an individual’s biochemistry,” he said. “These bespoke fragrances, offered by companies like GENEU, can cost upwards of $50,000 for the initial creation process, with several thousand dollars in refills.”
Private IMAX Theaters
Private IMAX theaters have become the ultimate home entertainment splurge, according to Salahi.
“Beyond standard home theaters, these setups replicate the full IMAX experience, complete with state-of-the-art projection and sound systems.
He said installation costs around $400,000 but can soar to over $1 million for the most advanced systems.
Artificial Gravity Chambers
“Artificial gravity chambers, once the realm of science fiction, are now available for the ultra-wealthy space enthusiast,” Salahi said.
These rotating rooms simulate the effects of gravity in space and are used for both entertainment and potential health benefits.
“Depending on size and capabilities, a personal gravity chamber can cost anywhere from $5 million to $15 million.”
Quantum Computer Time-Sharing
Quantum computer time-sharing allows wealthy tech enthusiasts to access cutting-edge computing power.
While owning a quantum computer is still out of reach for most, Salahi said companies offer time-slices on their quantum processors for solving complex problems or simply for bragging rights.
“Costs can range from $10,000 to $100,000 per hour of use.”
Personalized Island-Building Services
Personalized island-building services have emerged for those satisfied with existing real estate options.
“Companies like Dutch Docklands specialize in creating artificial islands tailored to a client’s specifications,” Salahi explained. “Prices start at around $10 million for a modest private island and can exceed $1 billion for more ambitious projects.”
Overall, Salahi observed that these extravagant purchases and services underscore the vast chasm between average luxury spending and the realm of the super-rich.
“They reflect immense wealth and a desire for experiences and possessions that push the boundaries of what’s possible,” he added.
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