First of all: I have not tested the Guilty Elixir de Parfum pour Homme before. So if you want to know how this one compares, you would have to check out the other reviews.
The Guilty Absolu de Parfum pour Homme starts on my skin and in my nose with a good portion of Ariel, alternatively Persil laundry detergent. Basically like back in Grandma's laundry room. Soapy, clean, and with a restrained temperament - at least regarding the initial scent impression. On my skin, I also get benzoin relatively early, and it remains intensely noticeable the whole time. For the first 1-2 hours, it somehow reminds me of "The Tragedy of Lord George | Penhaligon's"
I find the scent progression to be quite linear; not much really happens on my skin. Tonka and vanilla, as well as benzoin, are always present, embedded in this soapy note. A floral component is also present - but I couldn't necessarily assign it to orange; if magnolia were listed in the fragrance pyramid, I could probably agree with that. The almond occasionally flashes through, but far less intensely and prominently than, for example, in L'Homme Idéal Eau de Parfum. Leather... yes, I search in vain for leather here... but maybe I'm just too spoiled by the leather bombers from Francesca Bianchi & Co. And rum? Well, maybe Ariel just washed everything out, who knows.
In the end, it becomes a bit more balsamic, honey-sweet, yet the floral-soapy note seems to linger forever. But that's perfectly fine. In my opinion, the scent is office-compatible if you don't overdo it, as it has, even though the scent impression is restrained/"clean", quite a bit of power. More than 3 sprays and it would be too much of a good thing.
Conclusion: A well-made scent with a bit of a character flaw, but compatible with many occasions. However, too little happens for me to buy a whole bottle.
