Chrysler, Walter Percy, 1875-1940, American industrialist, founder of the Chrysler Corp. (now part of DaimlerChrysler A.G.), b. Wamego, Kans. He began as a machinist's apprentice and rose within the industry to become vice president in charge of operations at General Motors in 1919. In 1920 he undertook the reorganization of the Willys Overland and Maxwell companies. In 1924 he brought out the first Chrysler car and within a short time he made the company one of the largest automobile manufacturers.

Chrysler Building, in midtown Manhattan, New York City, at Lexington Ave. between 42d and 43d St. The ultimate art deco-style skyscraper, it was commissioned by Walter P. Chrysler, designed by William Van Alen, and built in 1926-30. For about a year, until the completion (1931) of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler was the world's tallest building. Comprised of 77 stories and 1,048 ft (319 m) tall, this steel-framed office building is a stepped tower with two primary setbacks. It is topped by a series of gleaming, gradually diminishing arches clad in stainless chromium-nickel steel, pierced by narrow triangular windows and surmounted by a slim 185-ft (56-m) stainless spire. The building also features ornaments of the same steel, including enormous stylized eagle heads, pineapples, and automobile-related designs. Its lobby is an art deco extravaganza of marble, chrome, and fresco.

Office building (1926–30) in New York City designed by William Van Alen (1883–1954). The epitome of sleek Art Deco design, its tapering sunburst-patterned stainless-steel spire remains a striking feature of the Manhattan skyline. Much of its futuristic automotive ornamentation was specified by its owner, Walter P. Chrysler (see Chrysler LLC). It was briefly the tallest in the world (1,046 ft [318.8 m]) until the Empire State Building opened in 1931.

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