The biggest car show in the Fraser
Valley happens in Langley on the 1st weekend after Labour Day. It is of such note that even the Queen makes
an appearance to welcome us. Her ‘bobble’
wave is adorable. I tell myself that if she can do this show then I can too.
But first and foremost, there must be color!
And there is!
This is what I love
about classic cars. There is a delightful use of color…sometimes its original and sometimes it’s ‘poetic license’.
A design feature I learned about
at this show was 1930's ‘Art Deco’. This style from the depression era included the use of geometric shapes presented in stepped and repetitive patterns.
Chrome is another feature that
was highly visible in the past. Unfortunately
chrome has fallen out of favor with current manufacturers and so classic car
collectors have revolted with their lavish use of chrome. Even the unseen engine can be entirely
chromed at great cost and effort. All metal
parts of the engine including supporting braces are removed and
chromed and then returned into their place.
An example of non-chromed engine.
A chromed engine.
Interestingly enough, a new trend
in restoring cars is creating not just vintage cars but also a vintage finish. It’s called ‘patina’.
Some of these cars have been restored and then artifically aged to match
the shabby chic furniture in many homes today.
But still, the exotic and very
rare Auburn of 1929 received the most attention. Its unique boat tail, and jumbo head lights speak
of wealth, luxury, and Hollywood. What a
contrast to the classics dressed in patina.
Other contrasts also caught my
eye. Such as the 1960’s Corvette engine
sitting in a 1929 Ford. Really? If restored cars are evaluated for their ‘original’
condition then how is this authentic? I ask you, does this Ford deserve its "collectors" license plate?
Then there is the surprise
reversal in fortunes between the ’55 Pontiac and ’55 Chevy. The Pontiac was a luxury car with deluxe trim
and interior and definitely more expensive to buy than the chevy. And yet today, the ’55 chevy is worth twice
the Pontiac and in much greater demand.
This favor exists in spite of the abundance of chevy’s and the rarity of Pontiacs.
My favorite item at this show was
not a car but a trailer. Made for two
(with a little squeezing) it was perfect with a sound system and TV tucked above
the bed and a kitchenette on the outside.
Now that’s roughing it in a gentle kind of way.
Hey diddle dee dee, the open road for me!
