that was me. it was a mavic MA40 laced 2x. MA40s are really light, boxy rims, and not durable at all (nice and light though, I'd get them again for something besides commuting). that said, that wheel lasted fine until the accident.

but then, if you ride a bike here regularly, it is a question of when and how you will get hit, not if.

OP said something about old discontinued rims. If it is something you value, I'd not rely on them commuting and general riding about. For that, get something like a CXP33 or a Deep V or something, in 32 and 3x or more.

And don't believe the bs about how straight gauge spokes are stronger. Get DB for any decent wheel.

If you wait until the weather is cold and xup stops being crowded, people in that basement can help you to build your wheel, after sheldon brown helps you to lace it. Otherwise, there are lots of good bike shops.