By David Stollery
The automotive design field has hundreds that have left their mark both in terms of styling, and in the personal impressions left on those around them. However, in this group there are indeed a few that stand out from the rest. Chuck Jordan was one of the industry icons that few can compare with. Chuck’s magic is still carried on in those he worked with over the years. Dave Stollery, former Calty Design Director and currently President of Industrial Design Research, Inc., fondly remembers one of the many magic moments spent with Mr. Jordan.
Charles “Chuck” Jordan
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“It somehow seemed that Chuck Jordan and General Motors would go on forever. Well of course that’s not reality, but it just seemed like both should. I was one of many young designers privileged to work for General Motors and Chuck Jordan. Working at G.M. design staff was more than having a really cool job, it was at most like belonging to a very exclusive cult and Chuck Jordan was one of the high priests.
1958 Chevrolet Corvette
Chuck was more than professional, he was absolutely passionate about automotive design and working for General Motors. He didn’t ask or require you to have this same passion, he just expected it. Personalities, differences of opinion, power and privileges were irrelevant to his drive to get things right.
1956 Buick Centurion Motorama Dream Car
I remember a particular time when Chuck was reviewing our latest concepts for a new project. As young designers, we were determined to come up with astonishing new proposals, unfortunately not always considering that they were appropriate. Chuck looked over our presentation and commented “I appreciate your efforts to be different, but if I add an eye in the middle of my forehead, I’d certainly be different, but nobody would go on a date with me.” End of critique.
It’s lamentable to witness the passing of the old General Motors and Chuck Jordan, whose passion helped support its success.”
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