At the time the building was erected, the builders of New York were in the throes of a stiff competition to build the world's tallest skyscraper. The Chrysler building was constructed at an average rate of 4 floors per week, and no workers were killed during construction. Just prior to completion, the building stood even with [H. Craig Severance]?'s [40 Wall Street]?. Mr. Severance subsequently added two feet to his building, and claimed the title of the world's tallest building (this distinction excluded "structures", such as the Eiffel Tower.)
Not one to be outdone, Mr. van Alen had already secretly obtained permission to build a 125 foot spire, which was being constructed inside of the building. The spire, composed of Nirosta stainless steel, was hoisted to the top of the building one afternoon in November, 1929, making the Chrysler Building not only the world's tallest building, but also the world's tallest structure. Van Alen and Chrysler enjoyed this distinction for less than a year, before it was surrendered to the Empire State Building. Unfortunately, Mr. van Alen's satisfaction was muted by Walter Chrysler's refusal to pay his fee.
The Chrysler Building is a gorgeous example of Art Deco architecture, and the distinctive ornamentation of the tower is based on the hubcaps that were then being used on Chrysler automobiles.
It would be lovely to talk more about the exterior...
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