Freshman78
Reviews
Detailed
A Vintage Gem
I tracked down a 1990 version to compare with my "meh" 2023 Obsession for Men but to also understand how one might have experienced it when released.
One cannot buy a current version thinking this is what it was in the early days. The overall experience is rounder, richer, and deeper. All the notes work together in harmony, which I'm sure also has something to do with the aging as well. I think modern versions of most older fragrances have notes which want attention and scream out, which makes for a spikier/sharper experience.
Some have mentioned it smells smoky like an ashtray (no!) or that it is very feminine (well, perhaps more so than the men's). I think a man could wear this in the right context while dressed correctly. This isn't a jeans and t-shirt kinda scent. A collared shirt with slacks or formal wear, sure.
Note that mine is a strong orange colour on blotter, so no white shirts!
The EDP is definitely less spicy and cinnamon forward. It is more sweet, but not terribly so. The top notes are still intact with a lovely orange and lemon scent playing with the green notes. The dry down is smooth and seductive with the spices and rose coming to the fore. The civet, oakmoss, and vanilla are very pleasant in the base with a very good longevity.
I'm thinking of giving away my Obsession for Men as it cannot compete with the quality of this gem. Take the time to find one from the late 80s or early 90s and you won't be disappointed.
One cannot buy a current version thinking this is what it was in the early days. The overall experience is rounder, richer, and deeper. All the notes work together in harmony, which I'm sure also has something to do with the aging as well. I think modern versions of most older fragrances have notes which want attention and scream out, which makes for a spikier/sharper experience.
Some have mentioned it smells smoky like an ashtray (no!) or that it is very feminine (well, perhaps more so than the men's). I think a man could wear this in the right context while dressed correctly. This isn't a jeans and t-shirt kinda scent. A collared shirt with slacks or formal wear, sure.
Note that mine is a strong orange colour on blotter, so no white shirts!
The EDP is definitely less spicy and cinnamon forward. It is more sweet, but not terribly so. The top notes are still intact with a lovely orange and lemon scent playing with the green notes. The dry down is smooth and seductive with the spices and rose coming to the fore. The civet, oakmoss, and vanilla are very pleasant in the base with a very good longevity.
I'm thinking of giving away my Obsession for Men as it cannot compete with the quality of this gem. Take the time to find one from the late 80s or early 90s and you won't be disappointed.
