February 5, 1999

'Luxury Fever: Why Money Fails to Satisfy in an Era of Excess'

By NINA C. AYOUB

It may be appalling to learn that some people will pay $17,500 for a relatively low-end Patek Philippe watch. And it's hard to feel sympathy for those who must wait patiently on back order for a Kelly handbag from Hermes, a mere $14,000. But if you think the foibles of the rich, while amusing, are wildly irrelevant, Robert H. Frank says think again.

In Luxury Fever: Why

Print Subscription

Digital Subscription

Already have an account? Log In Now.