belair lighting company home
belair lighting company home
Michael Jackson – Private Home Movies (PL / ENG subtitles)
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Elm Postmount by Hinkley Lighting
$279 The Hinkley Lighting Elm Postmount combines Asian detailing with Craftsman design for a blended look that works with a variety of home architecture styles. Warm, distressed Amber Etched glass creates welcoming lighting, best complemented by the Elm Pendant and Wall Sconce. Post not included. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Elm Postmount is available with the following: Details:Distressed Amber Etched glass shadeRegency Bronze finishIncludes a 3" post fitterPost not includedUL Listed for wet locationsOptions:Lamping: Fluorescent, or Incandescent.Lighting:Fluorescent option utilizes one 26 Watt 120 Volt Type GU24 Compact Fluorescent lamp (included).Incandescent option utilizes one 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 7 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 19 In., Width 9 In. |
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Genesis Pendant by Access Lighting
$86.4 Appearing as a flashlight within a fluted, half-frosted/half clear glass shade, the Access Lighting Genesis Pendant provides a diffused spot of illumination over the bar or table. A delicate, classic look, the Genesis Pendant is a clean-lined, timeless design for the contemporary home. Access Lighting, a California Company, provides practical, beautiful, and affordable time-tested classics and energy efficient lighting. Exclusive designs in contemporary and traditional styles for indoors and outdoors are gathered from around the world. The Access Lighting Genesis Pendant is available with the following: Details:Cone-shaped Clear with Frosted Band glass shadeMetal supportsBrushed Steel finishRound ceiling canopy72" clear cordETL ListedLighting: One 35 Watt 120 Volt Type GU10 Halogen lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Length 19 In., Diameter 4 In. |
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Christie Pendant by Access Lighting
$66.6 Mottled and unique, the Access Lighting Christie Pendant shines in its blown glass form, accent colors providing a pop and allure characteristic of artisan pieces. Available in Amber, Plum or White, the Christie Pendant works with a number of design schemes for the soft contemporary home. Access Lighting, a California Company, provides practical, beautiful, and affordable time-tested classics and energy efficient lighting. Exclusive designs in contemporary and traditional styles for indoors and outdoors are gathered from around the world. The Access Lighting Christie Pendant is available with the following: Details:Blown glass shadeMetal supportsBrushed Steel finishRound ceiling canopy10' cordUL ListedOptions:Shade: Amber, Plum, or White.Lighting: One 60 Watt 120 Volt Type E26 Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Diameter 4 In., Height Adjustable from 12 In. to 120 In., Length 7 In. |
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Adele Pendant by Access Lighting
$117 Beautiful blown glass with hand-applied glass strands, the Access Lighting Adele Pendant glows with unique illumination and presents a handsome artistic and versatile look for the soft contemporary home. Available in 5 unique colors, this pendant offers both versatility and craftsman appeal. Access Lighting, a California Company, provides practical, beautiful, and affordable time-tested classics and energy efficient lighting. Exclusive designs in contemporary and traditional styles for indoors and outdoors are gathered from around the world. The Access Lighting Adele Pendant is available with the following: Details:Blown glass shade with applied glass strandsMetal supportsBrushed Steel finishRound ceiling canopy10' adjustable cordUL ListedOptions:Shade: Amber, Black, Blue, Plum, or White.Lighting: One 60 Watt 120 Volt Type E26 Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height Adjustable from 12 In. to 126 In., Diameter 3.25 In. |
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Revolution Chandelier by Forecast Lighting
$498 Like an ancient wheel chandelier updated for today's transitional spaces, the Forecast Lighting Revolution Chandelier offers candle-like radiance through etched and clear glass shades. Deep Bronze or Satin Nickel finished metal provides a stately look. A hearty chandelier for the grand dining room. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Revolution Chandelier is available with the following: Details: Cylindrical Etched with Clear glass shadesMetal framingRound ceiling canopy96" adjustable cableOptions: Finish: Deep Bronze, or Satin Nickel (shown).Size: Large, or Small (shown).Lighting: Large option utilizes sixteen 25 Watt 120 Volt Type G9 Halogen lamps (included).Small option utilizes twelve 25 Watt 120 Volt Type G9 Halogen lamps (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 3 to 5 business days. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Width 23.5 In., Height 5.25 In., Overall Length Adjustable to 101 In. Large Fixture: Width 31.5 In., Height 5.25 In., Overall Length Adjustable to 101 In. Cord: Length 96 In. |
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Ingo Chandelier by Forecast Lighting
$658 Combining sharp lighting with sleek curves, the Forecast Lighting Ingo Chandelier has struck upon a balanced, flowing design that will enhance and unify any room it's in. Features the added versatility of inverting the fixture to create unique downlighting. Available in two glass/finish combinations. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Ingo Chandelier is available with the following: Details:6 Cylindrical glass shadesMetal frameRectangular ceiling canopy4", 8", 12" and 24" internally threaded stemsFixture may be mounted as an uplight or downlightUL ListedOptions:Finish and Glass: Gun Metal with Etched White Opal (shown), or Merlot Bronze with Light Caramel.Lighting: Six 60 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 24 In., Height 6 In., Overall Length Adjustable to 56 In. |
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Sloan Chandelier by Hinkley Lighting
$449 The Hinkley Lighting Sloan Chandelier marries clean lines and modern style with rich, natural-looking materials. Five cylindrical natural linen shades are clustered around a curved frame in the deeply colored Regency Bronze finish. For a grand, sophisticated statement in an entryway or dining room. Use with other pieces from the Sloan collection to create an air of understated sophistication throughout the home. Cleveland-based Hinkley Lighting is driven by a passion to combine design and function to create exceptional lighting solutions. Family-owned Hinkley began as a traditional lantern company in 1922, and, still today, they produce top quality outdoor lighting. Hinkley Lighting has also expanded to include a full range of interior lighting solutions, including chandeliers, sconces, pendants and vanity lights. The Hinkley Lighting Sloan Chandelier is available with the following: Details:Cylindrical Natural Linen shadesMetal frameRegency Bronze finishCeiling canopy60" chain72" lead wireLighting: Five 60 Watt 120 Volt Candelabra Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 7 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 25.5 In., Width 26 In. Hanging Length: Overall Length Adjustable to 85.5 In. Chain: Length 60 In. Ceiling Canopy: Diameter 6 In. |
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Embarcadero Pendant by Forecast Lighting
$198 The Forecast Lighting Embarcadero Pendant is as timeless as it is contemporary with an understated, fabric shade and clean lines. Incredible attention to detail pays off. The Embarcadero Pendant features a Vanilla fabric shade and etched glass bottom diffuser. Internally-threaded stems used in combination for flexible mounting heights. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Embarcadero Pendant is available with the following: Details:Cylinder-shaped, Vanilla fabric shadeEtched White bottom glass diffuserMetal hardwareRound ceiling canopy4 in., 8 in., 12 in. and 24 in. internally threaded stemsPart of the Organic Modern collection, featuring natural, sustainable materialsUL ListedOptions:Finish: Satin Nickel, or Sorrel Bronze (shown).Lighting:Utilizes one 60 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 3-5 days. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Height 12 In., Diameter 4.5 In., Overall Height Adjustable to 62 In. Large Fixture: Diameter 10 In., Overall Height Adjustable to 70 In., Height 20 In. |
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Attitude Chandelier by Forecast Lighting
$418 The overlapping triangular frame of this 3-light chandelier is effortless in its elegance and simplicity. The Forecast Lighting Attitude Chandelier features three cylindrical white opal glass shades and is supported by three adjustable aircraft-grade cables of 10' each. Available with a high gloss white or black frame and ceiling canopy. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Attitude Chandelier is available with the following: Details:3 cylindrical White Opal glass shadesMetal frameRound metal ceiling canopyThree 120" fully adjustable aircraft cablesUL ListedOptions:Finish: High Gloss Black, or High Gloss White (shown).Lighting: Three 75 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Fixture: Length Adjustable to 125 In., Width 23.5 In., Height 8 In. Cable: Length 120 In. |
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Lisa Flushmount by Forecast Lighting
$98 The Forecast Lighting Lisa Flushmount provides mounting versatility, design simplicity, and overall bright illumination. The Lisa Flushmount is a part of Forecast's exciting collection of contemporary lighting ensembles. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Lisa Flushmount is available with the following: Details: Etched White Opal glass shadeSatin Nickel finishSuitable for wall or ceiling applicationsADA Compliant when wall-mountedUL ListedOptions:Size: Large, or Small.Lighting: Large: Three 60 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included).Small: Two 60 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included).Orders placed by 11am PT Monday - Friday will ship within 24 hours. Orders received after 11am PT will ship next day. Orders received after 11 am on Friday through Sunday will ship the following Monday. . Dimensions: Large: Height 3.75 in., Diameter 13.5 in. Small: Height 3.75 in., Diameter 11.5 in. |
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Evan Chandelier by Forecast Lighting
$458 With its elegant, cool simplicity, the Forecast Lighting Evan Chandelier is a lovely choice for lighting bedrooms, kitchens and living rooms. Available in two finish/glass combinations--one is more sleek and modern, the other is more classic and warm. With a rounded triangular frame and six lovely Obscura glass uplights. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Evan Chandelier is available with the following: Details:6 Obscura glass shadesMetal frameRound metal ceiling canopy4", 8", 12" and 24" internally threaded stemsUL ListedOptions: Finish and Glass: Satin Nickel with Obscura White (shown), or Sorrel Bronze with Obscura Amber.Lighting: Six 60 Watt 120 Volt Candelabra Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 22 In., Width 22 In., Length Adjustable to 72 In. |
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Buckhead Wall Sconce by Forecast Lighting
$128 The Forecast Lighting Buckhead Wall Sconce makes a statement with its rectangular wire cage around a warm, white opal glass shade. A deep Sorrel Bronze finish gives this sconce an earthy groundedness, great for Craftsman homes. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Buckhead Wall Sconce is available with the following: Details:Rectangular White Opal glass shadeMetal fittingsSorrel Bronze finishWall plateLighting: One 60 Watt 120 Volt Candelabra Base Incandescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within three- to five business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 7.5 In., Height 6.37 In., Extension 5.25 In. |
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Glas Suspension by Foscarini/Diesel Home
$797 The Glas takes the familiar image of the industrial lamp used in factories and transforms it into a timeless personal entity. By day, the Foscarini/Diesel Home Glas Suspension quietly reflects the objects and environment around it. By night, it emits a steady warm light that's both directed and diffuse. It's retro, deco, warehouse, modern, playful, iconic and personal all rolled into one. Finally, Diesel customers are able to personalize their homes with lighting that is equal to their tastes. The Successful Living from Diesel with Foscarini collection is a collaboration of two preeminent world brands, Diesel and Foscarini. These Diesel Home Collection lighting designs have been developed with innovative materials and production techniques, and each item is customized using iconic Diesel treatments and styles. Beginning in 1978 as a company focused on making quality clothing, Diesel has become part of the youth culture worldwide. With products ranging from lighting to watches to motorcycle helmets, Diesel eschews the dictates of style forecasters, instead creating designs that eclectically speak to personal tastes. Headquartered in Italy, Foscarini offers superb contemporary lighting products in playful and inspiring designs. In partnership with both established designers and emerging designers, Foscarini has created an exciting collection of products for residential and commercial applications. The Foscarini/Diesel Home Glas Suspension is available with the following: Details:Blown glass diffuserChrome finishCeiling canopyOne chainOptions:Size: Large, or Small (shown).Lighting: Small option utilizes one 50 Watt Type E26 medium base incandescent lamp (not included).Large option utilizes one 20 Watt E26 medium base fluorescent lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 weeks. Dimensions: Small Shade: Diameter 8.63 In., Height 9.53 In. Small Fixture: Height Adjustable to 57 In. Large Shade: Diameter 15.97 In., Height 16.06 In. Large Fixture: Height Adjustable to 64.25 In. Ceiling Canopy: Diameter 5 In. |
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Weston Pendant by Forecast Lighting
$178 Modernize the kitchen with the Forecast Lighting Weston Pendant. Its Etched White Opal glass features an indented mid-line, onto which mechanical-like metal grasps. A sleek, cool option for contemporary spaces. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Weston Pendant is available with the following: Details: Etched White Opal glass shadeMetal supports and stemSatin Nickel finishRound ceiling canopy96" field adjustable cordOptions: Size: Large (shown), or Small.Lighting: Large option utilizes one 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included).Small option utilizes one 75 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships within three- to five business days. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Width 4.75 In., Height 9.5 In., Overall Length Adjustable to 105.5 In. Cord: Length 96 In. Large Fixture: Width 7.75 In., Height 19 In., Overall Length Adjustable to 115 In. |
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Passage Flushmount by Forecast Lighting
$178 The Forecast Lighting Passage Flushmount is the fluorescent sister to the Lisa Flushmount, providing design simplicity and overall bright illumination. The Passage Flushmount features an Etched White Opal glass shade and a Satin Nickel finish. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Passage Flushmount is available with the following: Details:Drum-shaped Etched White Opal glass shadeMetal accentsSatin Nickel finishOptions:Size: Large (shown), or Small.Lighting:Large option utilizes two 18 Watt 120 Volt Quad Base Compact Fluorescent lamps (not included).Small option utilizes two 13 Watt 120 Volt Quad Base Compact Fluorescent lamps (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 3-5 days. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Height 3.75 In., Diameter 11.5 In. Large Fixture: Height 3.75 In., Diameter 13.5 In. |
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Ingo Flushmount by Forecast Lighting
$298 Captivating in its simplicity, the Forecast Lighting Ingo Flushmount provides elegant downlighting bright enough for the kitchen yet soft enough for a romantic dinner in the dining room. Its rounded shape gently attracts the eye and encourages a laid-back attitude. Reserved contemporary design is at your fingertips. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Ingo Flushmount is available with the following: Details:4 cylindrical glass shadesMetal framingRound ceiling canopyUL Listed for damp locationsOptions:Finish and Glass: Merlot Bronze with Light Caramel (shown), or Gun Metal with Etched White Opal.Lighting: Four 60 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Fixture: Diameter 13.5 In., Height 7 In. |
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Alentejo Flushmount by Forecast Lighting
$420 The Forecast Lighting Alentejo Flushmount is a unique fixture that adds a sparkle to transitional spaces. A natural, sustainable cork covers a clear acrylic shade to allow light to twinkle through, providing a diffused, warm light in the living room or hallway. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Alentejo Flushmount is available with the following: Details:Round Cork Over Clear Acrylic shadeEtched glass bottom diffuserMetal hardwarePart of the Organic Modern collection, featuring natural, sustainable materialsUL ListedOptions:Finish: Merlot Bronze (shown), or Satin NickelLighting: Three 40 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Fixture: Diameter 15 In., Height 6.62 In. |
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Crescendo Chandelier by Forecast Lighting
$638 The Forecast Lighting Crescendo Chandelier is a uniquely designed fixture which can be mounted as an uplight or a downlight. Its alternating up and down curved arms catch the eye while Etruscan Beige glass shades perfectly complement an earthy, deep bronze finish. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Crescendo Chandelier is available with the following: Details:8 Etruscan Beige glass shadesMetal frameDeep Bronze finishCeiling canopy4", 8", 12" and 24" internally threaded stemsLighting: Six 60 Watt 120 Volt Candelabra Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within three- to five business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 26 In., Height 21 In. Hanging Length: Overall Length Adjustable to 71 In. |
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Ecoframe Pendant by Forecast Lighting
$438 Support sustainable fashion with the Forecast Lighting Ecoframe Pendant. Warm light passes through a glass diffuser and rosin botanic panelling for a breathtaking sunrise effect. View the rest of the Ecoframe Collection for a natural, organic look. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Ecoframe Pendant is available with the following: Details:Resin Botanic panelInner Etched White Opal glass diffuserMetal hardwareSatin Nickel finish96" field adjustable cordPart of the Organic Modern collection, featuring natural, sustainable materialsUL ListedLighting: One 75 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included) Shipping: This item usually ships within 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 6 In., Height 10.5 In. Suspension: Overall Length Adjustable to 106 In. Cord: Length 96 In. |
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Pacifica Pendant by Forecast Lighting
$198 The Forecast Lighting Pacifica Pendant, part of the Organic Modern Collection, is a simple though characterizing pendant that offers a natural, casual look to kitchens and living rooms. Sand on clear glass allows diffused light to pass through, creating a unique quality of illumination. Dedicated to seeking customer feedback, Forecast Lighting has generated distinctive lighting designs that clearly stand out in a crowded marketplace. Founded in Southern California in the early 1970s as Forecast Lightolier, this unique lighting company has an in-house design team that travels the world to identify materials and trends that will ultimately result in extraordinary lighting for the home and office. The Forecast Lighting Pacifica Pendant is available with the following: Details:Sand on Clear glass panelCylinderical inner Etched White Opal glass diffuserMetal hardwareSquare ceiling canopy96" field adjustable cordPart of the Organic Modern collection, featuring natural, sustainable materialsUL Listed Options: Finish: Merlot Bronze (shown), or Satin Nickel.Lighting: One 75 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1-2 weeks. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 6 In., Height 10.5 In. Hanging Length: Overall Length Adjustable to 106 In. Cord: Length 96 In. |
At the dawn of the second half of the 20th century half the population of the USA lived in rural America and street racing had yet to even be named. Racing was something that occurred on tracks or backroads – not on city streets. On the west coast a new method of racing was being invented – a way to race within the confines of an urban environment. If you want an object lesson in how serving a niche within an American subculture is a great business model, look no further than the birth of American Racing custom wheels.
The drag race was a creation of popular culture. It did not come out of boardrooms or marketing plans – it was a creation of the street. Two of the sports’ early stars were San Francisco machine shop owner Jim Ellison and partner and drag racer Romeo Palamides.
Between them, these two invented the mag wheel. Using spoked magnesium wheels with a strength to weight ratio unheard of in any other automobile wheel format, they revolutionized drag racing, first, and American car wheel design second.
Once Romeo began cruising and bruising the local streets and strips in his revolutionary mags, word quickly spread among street racing enthusiasts. Other racers begged Jim and Romeo to make mags for them. Demand was so relentless that it became clear a profitable business could be made designing, manufacturing and selling after-market wheels for street and drag racing and American Racing Equipment was incorporated by Romeo, Jim and design engineer Tom Griffith in 1956. The company was serviced the street racing subculture until the early Sixties, when the famous Torq Thrust wheel took the company mainstream.
The Torq Thrust is widely credited with creating the after-market car wheel. The 5-spoke ‘tapered parabolic’ design kept brakes cooler while the muscular look made the driver look cooler. Suddenly drivers who had no intention to drag race wanted American Racing wheels for their car. With them, even Mom’s ’57 Bel-Air looked like a muscle car.
American Racing custom wheels have since ascended into that pantheon where a product becomes a symbol for a life style: think Harley, Blackberry or Royal Dolton. Certain American Racing wheels are prized by collectors – most especially early Sixties Torq Thrust. Well, maybe not m-o-s-t especially. The absolute most valuable American Racing wheel is a broken Vector model owned by a collector in Sylmar, California, according to the American Racing website.
Where did this collector’s item come from and why is it so sought after? The answer to that question shows both the quality of American Racing custom wheels and the company’s penetration into pop culture.