A.J. Watson, known as the “Wizard of Indy,” arrived at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1948 and in 1950 qualified the low budget “Pots and Pans Special,” built by fellow Glendale, California hot-rodders. He changed the face of racing at the Speedway, winning the 500 as chief mechanic in 1955 and then winning in 1956 with a car of his own design, the first of the famed Watson Roadsters. Revered as among the most beautiful cars in Speedway history, the Watson Roadsters were as effective as they were aesthetic. From 156 through 1964, A.J.’s cars won six 500’s. In 1963, half the 500 field consisted of cars built by A.J. or from his plans, and in 1964 the top four finishers were Watsons. Along with his unprecedented success, peers remembered him for his white crew cut, for building a car without getting dirty, for his humbleness, and for his willingness to help others.