Zaharoff Signature pour Homme – World of Yesterday for the World of Tomorrow (Claude Dir, 2018)


Scentrack: Part Time – Lies in the Eyes of Love

Source: www.zaharoff.com
Nowadays it is very hard to find a balanced simplicity. Everything is extreme, intense, on steroids and devoid of any sense. “The louder, the better” is the current motto.
Then I sniffed Signature pour Homme, and instantly I was translocated in the past, probably something I smelt as a child during mid 80s in Europe. It was somehow a part of my already open olfactory map, yet somehow novel, and this is the best way to describe Zaharoff Signature pour Homme.
Signature opens with lavender as a backbone of classic European perfumery, accompanied by gentle cardamom. There is a hefty dose of fruitiness, probably pear, which gives a contemporary touch to the composition. This phase strongly reminded of my favorite Frapin 1270. While 1270 is saturated with different fruits and firmly goes to gourmand territory, Signature pour Homme just shyly tiptoes and goes further to Oriental phase. Then the combination of pepper and pimento (reminiscent of another Frapin – Caravelle Epicee) gives an introduction to the oriental woods. These woods are ancient, dark, relaxing. A perfect juxtaposition to modern way of life. Cedar, and sandalwood are darkened with just a touch of liturgical oud and frankincense. Still, the composition is not dense and dark like usual niche releases. It is somehow airy, yet substantial. Old and somehow modern at the same time. This formula is like an olfactive onion with so many peels, waiting to be sensed. One cannot find here major note overdose. Everything is precisely balanced and tweaked to create a new entity.  
I believe I got the idea behind this creation – to create a true modern classic. Take the part of our perfumery heritage and paired it with modern tendencies. To unconsciously enjoy the achievements of generations before and boldly step forward.

Thanks to the generosity of George Zaharoff, I had an opportunity to finally test Signature pour Homme. He even sent me a sample overseas. Thanks George!!  
                                                 
Longevity/ Projection
Excellent (8-10 hrs) / Moderate

Suggested Wearing
All-around player         

Alternatives (only slightly reminiscent)
Frapin – 1270 + Caravelle Epicee
Mont Blanc – Individuel
Creed – Original Santal

Pros
Modern, but founded in past
Easy to wear
Great signature scent
Light and substantial

Cons
Too serious for some
Too many gentle note layers for costumers expecting one note overdose  

Rating
8.5/10

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