In this article I show how the revolving restaurant view can be investigated media archeologically as an optical device. As a methodology media archeology enables me to “discover” or unpack hidden connections between architectural structures, mobile mechanical observation units and information technology, allowing the concept of the cinematic to be a concern also of the architectural. This preliminary comment is part of a bigger project where I show how a media archeologically motivated analysis of the parallel development of kinetic structures, aerial rides and new imaging technologies have the potential to confront and open up new perspectives on the increasing aero-visual predominance in our culture and society.