Here's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a celebrity in its own right: the original solar-powered ferris wheel from the Santa Monica Pier. This eBay auction running April 15-25 by Santa Monica Amusements doesn't appear to be a hoax because the proceeds will benefit the Special Olympics for Southern California. 
The 90-foot-tall, 30-foot-wide, 220,000-pound Pacific Wheel debuted May 1996 with the opening of Pacific Park and was adapted into the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel in November 1998. It reaches speeds of 3 RPM, includes 20 gondolas with a maximum six riders per car, accommodates up to 800 riders per hour and illuminates with 5,392 light bulbs. Its base support structure can be purchased separately. The Pacific Wheel has over 300 celebrity appearances including 105 photo shoots, 71 television commercials, 69 television shows, 28 feature films, 13 music videos and top billing and appearances in television’s most popular programs. The reserve price right now is $50,000 with 50% of the final price going to the charity. Local pickup only.
“Local pickup only.” Ha! Their phrase or yours, Nikki?
Comment by Christian Gulliksen — April 16, 2008 @ 9:42 am
That would look good in my backyard. I wonder what the neighbours will think.
Comment by Furious D — April 16, 2008 @ 10:37 am
Well this is almost the dumbest thing I’ve seen in quite awhile! No base, and only one hub. So, this means you’re buying a pile of scrap that can’t be erected on another site someplace else? Who in their right mind would want this thing?
Comment by Doktor Frank Doe — April 17, 2008 @ 8:41 am
This is Hollywood we’re talking about here. The phrase “right minds” can’t be used too often when describing people.
My suggestion: A few modifications and you can roll that sucker down the Hollywood Hills like a deranged hamster wheel on the loose.
Comment by Anonymous — April 17, 2008 @ 12:02 pm