Wonder what outside entity it was that expressed interest in the ships. Hopefully something more commercial that could display them for all the (interested) public to see...
Personaly I don't think it has anything to do with the economy. Other auctions that have happened since the "Credit Crunch" have done well on high end items.
I've been watching the Barrett-Jackson auction, and bidding has been about 80-90% of previous years for repeat vehicles. There are a few regulars who are paying top dollar for top items, but for mid to low end vehicles there have been some deals.
After the months and months of promotion for this auction and it's excellent location, I believe the economy has had an impact *and* as others have stated here the 'cult', no mainstream, show.
Dan
Ps: How did the David Kelley auction of Boston Legal items go, anyone know?
Some mad prices. I hope people hold onto the paper props and artwork and not hope to just re sell, it may just be me but I dont see the art and paper props being resold for what they went for.
...and they aren't getting some bids. If you watch the bid buttons there are many times where an internet bidder upped it by another $100 or $250 and it was missed. Auctioneer going a bit too fast.