FRAG REVIEW - Old Spice (warning: long, but funny)

Apr '24 (edited) • New Releases & Reviews 📝

Hey frag fam, Joe A. here with another one for ya! I figured since everybody will be tuned into the Championship game of March Fragness, I thought I'd squeeze in a little posting about one of the old time legends and on of the greatest frags of all time! In tandem, I’d also like to delve into comparing different batches of this well-known fragrance. Your grandfather may have used this one in the past. Your father may have started you on your fragrance journey by handing you this as your very first fragrance. It’s a timeless classic, arguably a venerable foundational piece of fragrance history and nostalgia. Although throughout the years there have been known reformulations, this timeless king has weathered complaints and/or displeasures from enthusiasts, collectors and fans alike; all while coming out on top each and every time. Let’s take this classic out for a Joe Average spin and see if there are any appreciable differences in my two versions! Today’s fragrance, I’ll be looking at Proctor & Gamble's Old Spice!

Originally first released in 1937 by William Lightfoot Schultz of the Shulton Company, Old Spice is currently under the helm of Proctor & Gamble, makers of practically any number of household items or wares ranging from laundry detergent to Febreze to feminine care products. Old Spice has a storied history starting with its founding as an Early Americana themed cosmetic to being labelled as “America’s Scent” of US soldiers in World War Two to garnering worldwide recognition and respect enjoyed today.

Old Spice opens with a captivating burst of top notes that set the tone for its distinctive scent profile. My initial impression is a lively and invigorating blend of zesty citrus, primarily featuring bright notes of lemon and orange. These citrus elements provide an immediate freshness that awakens the senses and creates a dynamic introduction to the scent. Complementing the citrus are spicy notes, such as nutmeg and star anise, adding warmth and complexity, contributing to the overall character of Old Spice. The star anise is balanced, not too heavy and not too licorice. The combination of these top notes creates a refreshing and energizing experience.

Old Spice's mid notes play a pivotal role in shaping the fragrance, transitioning the invigorating top notes to the classic, recognizable warm and fresh spiciness that the scent profile is known for. In the heart, I get a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, particularly a rich and warming embrace of cinnamon. These spices infuse the fragrance with a sense of depth and sophistication, creating a robust and inviting core. As it evolves, the notes of geranium and oak moss really start to come through. Hinting at first in the opening, this combination blends well with the other spices and accords to create the iconic “barbershop” scent that many use as a baseline comparison of all other barbershop scents!

The base notes of Old Spice anchor the fragrance with a captivating blend of warm, earthy, and musky elements that linger on the skin, leaving a lasting and memorable impression. Rich and robust, the base notes prominently feature the timeless allure of vanilla and tonka bean, adding a creamy depth to the composition. Alongside these, I also get a touch of woods and musk that contributes to the fragrance's overall warmth. The combination of woodiness and musk in the base enhances the fragrance's longevity throughout my wearing experience.

Old Spice has earned its reputation not only for its nostalgic scent but also for its commendable longevity and performance given that it’s technically an “aftershave”. There’s a remarkable staying power with an ability to linger on the skin throughout 6 plus hours off my skin. The sillage is moderate for the first two hours, striking a well-balanced presence that is noticeable without being overwhelming. Classic and timeless, Old Spice works in the office (those little old ladies love the nostalgia) as well as for casual wearings. Can be used for formal events and date nights. I wouldn’t recommend it for gym use as body heat and humidity really turn up the power of Old Spice. Now as for age bracket, given the overall history of this fragrance, it does come across as smelling “old man.” It exudes class and sophistication and can easily over-wear younger guys (under 25-ish, unless you are going to something regal, like graduation or a wedding). All seasons wear, day or night, Old Spice is the penultimate in versatility!

So how did my two batches fare? My older batch is from pre-reformulated times, where original oak moss, among other things, was still allowed in fragrances. It was a batch from the 80’s, saved in excellent condition by kids’ godfather and now gifted to the “Fragrance Godfather”! My newer batch replaces the oak moss with a combination of benzoin and ambergris. In a previous review, I mentioned the ideas of “reformulation” and “maturation.” In today’s experience, I firmly believe both elements are at work here. My newer batch fell short on most everything when strictly comparing to my older one, from performance and longevity to overall potency. Don’t get me wrong, the newer batch still had a similar scent profile; the experience though was not as....vibrant and enriching... as the older batch. The older batch was richer and lasted a good 6 plus hours, acting more like an EDT than an aftershave. The “reformulation” and the “maturation” of the older batch has really elevated its scent profile!

Final Verdict: What sets Old Spice apart is its ability to evoke memories and transport individuals to a bygone era. The scent carries a sense of familiarity, reminiscent of the barbershops and gentlemen's clubs of yesteryear. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal, transcending age and trends. The distinctive blend of spices and aromatic elements in Old Spice makes it a versatile fragrance suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events. The fragrance has successfully maintained its relevance, not just as a perfume but as a cultural touchstone, connecting individuals across generations. In essence, Old Spice is more than just a fragrance; it's a living piece of history that continues to captivate and resonate with those who seek a timeless scent!

Joe Average Rating (JAR®): Okay, okay Mister Wind Bags!! Damn, we get it! Old Spice IS all that AND a bag of chips (fish and chips for our English friends.) Did you have to take all this time explaining it to us? Blah, blah, blah, geez, I mean, a simple “It’s good” would’ve sufficed! Always talking and talking with you! Anyways, Old Spice can be found for dirt cheap and you can apply it liberally without hurting your wallet! So the Joe Ave. Score is ----------

Ren C. : “WAIT, WAIT, WAIT, don’t score OLD SPICE, that’s just…..INSULTING!!”

Joe A. : “What are you talking about, Mr. "Long Winded as Hell"? I score everything! You’re the one that took up too much review space!”

Ren C. : “Hey, I’m just trying to give Old Spice the respect it deserves…”

Joe A. : “Yeah, yeah, whatever, I think you just like hearing yourself type…”

Ren C. : “WHAT DID YOU SAY ?!”

Joe A. : “Nothin……”

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