Very rare in-store demonstration display stand for the original Apple iPod (first generation). The 5GB iPod is presented in an acrylic 11 x 8 x 5 holder with an open central window that allows access to the media player controls. The interior features an information sheet with the now-famous slogan, “Say hello to iPod. 1,000 songs. In your pocket,” as well as component statistics for its 10-hour lithium battery, 5GB hard drive, FireWire, and the earbud headphones, the latter two of which are plugged into the iPod through small entry points at the top of the display. Removal of the iPod is possible by unfastening two small screws to either side. Includes a 2001 Apple iPod Power Adapter. The iPod is fully operational and in fine cosmetic condition; the display bears a couple of trivial internal cracks.
The iPod was released on November 10, 2001, less than six months after Apple opened its first two stores at Tysons Corner in McLean, Virginia, and at the Glendale Galleria in Glendale, California, on May 19th. A few days before these grand openings, Apple announced that it would open 25 retail stores across the U.S. in 2001, but, by year’s end, the company was unable to reach the ambitious number, ultimately topping out at eight new stores. Given the iPod’s late 2001 release date—and the 2nd generation’s debut just eight months later—the number of these iPod 1st gen demo stations is assuredly quite low, perhaps even in the single digits.
