Take a good look at this 1955 Chevy Bel Air. This pristine ride belongs to Joel Sellers, of Garden Grove, California, and it's a beautiful example of a first-year Tri Five.

Of all the details to be found on Joel's '55, the thing that stands out the most is undoubtedly its Candy Apple Red paint. The hue is deep and rich, and the gloss looks so wet you might think it was painted yesterday. However, that's not the case. Far from it, in fact. Joel tells us that this paint was applied in 2000 — it sure doesn't look like a nearly 17-year-old paint job.

Think of a car that represents American car culture, or even automotive culture in general, and you'll be hard-pressed to find one more iconic than the '57 Chevy Bel Air. From the aircraft-inspired hood ornaments, to the sweeping wheel arches, to the raked tail fins, every element of this car's design is eye-catching and memorable. There really is no angle from which the Bel Air doesn't look good, and that's a claim few cars have lived up to since. In fact, this car has been around for over half a century, but it still remains relevant and undeniably cool.

Think of a car that represents American car culture, or even automotive culture in general, and you'll be hard-pressed to find one more iconic than the '57 Chevy Bel Air. From the aircraft-inspired hood ornaments, to the sweeping wheel arches, to the raked tail fins, every element of this car's design is eye-catching and memorable. There really is no angle from which the Bel Air doesn't look good, and that's a claim few cars have lived up to since. In fact, this car has been around for over half a century, but it still remains relevant and undeniably cool.

Although there's nothing wrong with leaving your restoration project in the hands of qualified professionals at a trusted shop, there's something truly special about doing all the labor yourself. After countless hours of turning wrenches, and many late nights in the garage, you end up having personal knowledge of every last nut and bolt on your car.

This was the case for Larry Richards, of Seal Beach, California, who recently stopped by the Classic Industries showroom with his 1956 Chevy Bel Air. Larry restored this classic Chevy himself over the last five years, with some assistance from his friends on occasion. It features a 383ci stroker small-block V8 paired with a 700R4 automatic transmission. Disc brakes are visible through the windows of its chrome American Racing five-spoke wheels. We appreciate its vintage green and white two-tone paint, and abundance of intricately polished chrome accents.

Jerry's '57 Chevy Bel Air Hardtop Sport Coupe

Classic Industries' Southern California customer, Jerry Jacobs, pulled into the parking lot with his glamorous '57 Chevy Bel Air. This 2-door hardtop sport coupe is a daily driver for Jerry, but looks like it should be pampered at a local car show. He's the second owner for the last 25 years and this Larkspur Blue/Imperial Ivory combination quickly transports us back in time.

The Thrill of the Chase

A new Classic Industries project.

Now chopping.

Stay tuned for more on the latest Classic Industries collaboration with Speed TV's Emmy-nominated Chop Cut Rebuild with host Dan Woods.