Virgil Exner Visioneer - The Official Biography of Virgil M Exner, Designer Extraordinaire

By: Peter Grist .

Think of any car from the mid-1950s onward, and its appearance will probably bear the influence of automobile designer Virgil Max Exner, Sr.

On November 17th 1954, the covers were lifted on a series of cars that completely turned around people's attitudes toward Chrysler. Overnight, the tall, stodgy, drab cars of pre-war America were gone. In their place stood low, wide, colorful powerhouse cars that brought dealer showrooms to life. Cars that gave the impression of forward motion even when at rest - cars ready for take-off: the 'Forward Look' had arrived. In one fell swoop, Virgil Exner's designs stole the styling leadership from GM, and caused a sensation.

The Forward Look cars also resulted in 'Ex' (as he was known to his friends and colleagues) becoming the subject of almost movie star levels of attention and brought him a privileged lifestyle. With his Gary Cooper looks and athletic figure, Chrysler paraded Ex almost as often as his automobiles, but his personal life was not without tragedy or intrigue ...

Foreword by Virgil M Exner Jr An in-depth look at the last of the great auto-designers of the 20th century, his glorious achievements and personal tragedies. With many previously unseen works of art and family photos, this is a unique and fascinating insight into a pivotal player in the development of the modern automobile.

Includes Exner's industrial, automotive and powerboat designs.

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