Stunning Footage of the Construction of New York’s Empire State Building in Color (Opened in 1931)

This restored, enhanced, and colorized compilation unveils the awe-inspiring construction of New York’s Empire State Building (ESB), completed nearly a century ago in 1931. The film traces the journey from the demolition of the original Waldorf-Astoria hotel on January 22, 1930, to the laying of the base, steel production in nearby works, riveting at dizzying heights, and the building’s record-breaking completion in just 13.5 months by April 11, 1931. Opening officially on May 1, this 381-meter Art Deco icon—built on a steel frame—stands as a modern wonder, captivating history buffs and architecture fans alike.