The 7-Tooth Ford

November, 1953. Hop Up & Motor Life Magazine. My favorite quote in the article is, “Fred Calvin’s ’49 Ford Convertible is an excellent example of conservative Barris design and retains the neat uncluttered look of a well designed custom.” Three years later, Sam Barris would leave Barris Customs for a slower life in Northern California. With him, left the conservative, yet brilliant design mind that really put Barris Customs on the map in the early days. The wild creations from the mind of his brother, George, just solidified it all after Sam left.

Even so, Sam has always been “my guy.” You don’t have read the articles to know he was a quiet, reserved guy that never liked to see his name in lights. You just have to look at his cars. This shoebox is an excellent example. Like it’s builder, it’s reserved… It’s intelligent… It’s not pretending to be anything other than a subtle custom Ford. I love that.

Check it out:

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