When it comes to the world of fragrance, trends come and go but 4711’s classic scent has stood the test of time. Created in 1792, it’s officially the world’s oldest Eau de Cologne. Worn by both men and women, people keep coming back to this historic German fragrance for its nostalgic factor. Although it’s widely known the brand uses high-quality ingredients and essential oils to make it, the exact formula has been a close kept secret for over 200 years – making it one of the most iconic and distinctive fragrances to exist.
The famous Eau de Cologne hasn’t always been a fragrance. In the 18th century, 4711 was marketed as a health drink by founder Wilhelm Muelhens, and then later – due to a law which required the brand to disclose their ingredients – it was labelled a toilet water as they didn’t want to reveal the secret formula. As for the brand’s trademark, 4711 is named after the house number of the small factory where product was originally manufactured.
4711 flourished in the 1920s and 1930s as they introduced new offerings for men and women. In 1921, the brand created Tosca, a perfume for women that became a best-seller alongside Chanel No. 5. By the 50s and 60s, you’d find a bottle of 4711 on just about every woman’s vanity.
The original Eau de Cologne is now over two centuries old but the essence of it remains the same. The fragrance itself is citrus based, with a bright, fresh top note that grabs attention from first spritz. It is described as a crisp, clean, sweet, bright and uplifting scent with notes of orange, bergamot, lemon, jasmine, patchouli and musk.
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