It seems that accessories have become more important than gadgets themselves, since the cost of some high-end accessories now surpasses the price of actual devices. Strut, a popular automotive jewelery accessories manufacturing company has launched an all new Strut LaunchPort Case for iPad. Strut normally manufactures high-end wheels, grills and other accessories for luxury cars, so consumers might expect a Strut iPad accessory to be lavishly priced, but at $1250, the LaunchPort costs more than the 16GB iPad it protects.

The LaunchPort is a combination stand and case for the iPad, comprised of a spherical base with a strong magnet at the back which holds the wireless charging dock to the base. The round neodymium magnets allow the tablet to move right, left, up, and down on its base.  The dock and case are available separately, in which case customers will pay $1000 for the pedestal and $250 for the dock.  

The docking stand is hand-crafted and customized.  The Strut LaunchPort is available in stainless steel, walnut burl, carbon fibre, lepord print and sparkle pink, as well as seven other customized special-order finishes available via the Strut LaunchPort website. Strut also offers engraving for special orders. Pedestals come in Matte Black, Gloss White and Chrome. The case is given a glossy or silk-touch and is specially hand-polished.

Additionally, Strut offers a LaunchPort Wallstation which provides a "shelter" to your iPad. The Case can rotate up to 360 degrees when in the Wallstation.

The Strut LaunchPort is expected to go on sale later this month. Prior to its release, it will be displayed at the New York International Gift Fair. 

How do you feel about an accessory that costs more than the iPad?