Christer Gref's 1956 Ford Fairlane

1956 Ford Fairlane owned by Christer Gref of Sweden. This vehicle, tastefully modified and parked near the bridge to Djurgården Island in Stockholm, Sweden, was immortalized in a photograph taken by Roland Larsson in 1965. At the time, Sweden still operated under left-hand traffic rules, as reflected in the photograph. Photo from The Roland Larsson Collection.

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Lost and Found - Sweden

1956 Ford Fairlane owned by Christer Gref of Hägersten in Stockholm, Sweden. This vehicle, tastefully modified and parked near the bridge to Djurgården Island in Stockholm, Sweden, was immortalized in a photograph taken by Roland Larsson in 1965.

Background and Ownership

Through the license plate, the car's owner at the time was identified as Christer Gref, known by his nickname "Chrille."
Earlier owners were:

• 1961: Hans-Åke Nilsson, Gustafsberg
• 1962: Gillis Erixon, S:t Eriksgatan 99, sold to Leif Andersson, Vendelsö
• 1964: Carl Uhrzander, Danderyd
• 1965: Maud Holgate, Sköndal
• 1965: Erik Christer Gref, Hägersten

after that, the car left the Stockholm region and got a new license plate as new new owner Stefan Lindberg, was from Torshälla i Södermanland.

While not much is documented about Gref himself, his car's understated yet striking modifications have left a lasting impression on car enthusiasts.

Design and Customization

Chrille's Fairlane’s customization adhered to the tasteful aesthetics of its era. Its modifications appear to have been subtle yet stylish, highlighting the car’s natural design lines rather than overpowering them. The car's red finish, complemented by whitewall tires and chromed rear fender skirts, enhanced its classic American design. The addition of a continental kit at the rear further emphasizes the car's custom elegance. The door handles were also shaved, and it ran custom hubcaps, taillights, and dual exhaust pipes. Unfortunately, no additional photos or detailed records of the modifications exist, leaving much about this Fairlane's story open to speculation. Maybe it was done by Yankee Custom Parts??

Public Exposure

Despite its striking appearance, Gref's Fairlane was never displayed at any of the early Swedish Hot Rod Shows during the 1960s. This absence from the custom car spotlight has made it somewhat of a mystery within Swedish car culture. It remains unclear whether Gref actively participated in the car scene or preferred to enjoy his Fairlane privately.

Later History

According to Sweden's car registration records, Christer Gref sold the Fairlane in 1967, with the car’s new owner being located in Eskilstuna. What became of the car after this transfer is unknown. Its current whereabouts, condition, or fate remain a mystery.

Appeal for Information

This 1956 Ford Fairlane, though briefly captured in time, represents an important piece of Swedish custom car history. If you have any additional information, photographs, or stories about Christer Gref’s Fairlane, please contact Kustomrama at mail@kustomrama.com to help preserve its legacy.