Corky Coker

摘要

True aftermarket pioneers are those who create new markets that don't yet exist, precariously assuming financial risk to promote the hot rodding hobby. Joseph "Corky" Coker did just that. Through a combination of perseverance and gut instinct, he created the antique tire industry as we know it today. By resurrecting obsolete tires that were no longer produced, Corky brought period-correct rubber to the neglected antique car enthusiast. Founded in 1958 by Corky's father, Harold, the Coker Tire Company was originally a BFGoodrich dealer based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Constant exposure to his father's collection of Model As and Model Ts fueled Corky's interest in antique cars at an early age. Harold entertained requests from fellow car collectors for historically accurate reproduction tires, but pursuing such a small niche market was a big gamble. When Corky took over the company in 1974, antique tires accounted for only 5 percent of its total sales. Nevertheless, Corky smelled potential and went after the vintage tire market full steam.