Chrysler Building

William Van Alen

The crown jewel of New York Art Deco — a stainless-steel pinnacle assembled in secrecy to win the world's-tallest race.

Stainless-steel terraced crown with sunburst pattern
Gargoyles modelled on 1929 Chrysler hood ornaments
Spire raised inside the building, then jacked up in 90 minutes to surpass 40 Wall St