First trip donwtown

Yesterday, I decided that I would use this Saturday to go downtown. On the one hand, I wanted to see the city centre, on the other hand, I was hoping to find an electronics shop to buy a WLAN access point, which would allow me to move around a bit more freely with my computer in the house :-).
So, after work yesterday, I checked the weather forecast... Guess what: Rain! But also, a cloudy period around 4pm, so I still had some hope.
So, when I woke up today, as expected: a nice constant dribble on the pavement in front of my window. I already prepared to make alternative plans, and checked the weather forecast again: and hey! Supposedly, there might be a window of about 4hrs without rain around noon! What can I tell you: at 11:30, the rain stopped! I quickly dried my bike and on I went... I made the whole way into city and back without any problems, no rain at all. The way to downtown was rather disappointing: strange neighborhoods and strange people... Downtown wasn't spectacular either, but not bad! A few old buildings, some shops and some nice pubs. Aaaaand: an electronics shop! Guess what: I am writing this entry from my cozy couch in the living room :-D.
Here are two impressions of the city

And something else: In the living room, there is a strange gadget on the shelve, and I just can't figure out what it is! Look for yourself... any idea? Btw., I am not talking about the wooden crane.