Scentonym Analysis
Our objective metric for performance per dollar.
Conclusion
No. 439U is a solid alternative if you crave the Oud for Greatness vibe but don't want to drop a fortune. It's not a perfect dupe – the synthetic edges are noticeable, particularly in the dry down. But, at maybe 1/10th the cost, it’s a great budget option for everyday wear. If you're after ultra-realism and supreme quality, save up for the Initio. But if you just want to smell similar without breaking the bank, this is a decent, cost-effective choice. Recommended for fragrance newbies or those wanting to test the waters before splurging on the original.
How it Smells
No. 439U starts with a blast of saffron and nutmeg. The lavender tries to peek through, but it's mostly spice dominant. Compared to Oud for Greatness, it's about 92% similar in the opening. It lacks the refined smoothness of the original, coming across slightly sharper, a bit more synthetic. The heart develops into a decent oud accord, but it's not as complex or nuanced. The drydown is where the differences are most apparent: it's patchouli and musk, but with a lingering, slightly medicinal edge that the original avoids.
Longevity & Projection
Performance is surprisingly good . I get about 6-7 hours on skin, with moderate projection for the first 2 hours before it settles closer. On clothing, it easily lasts a full work day. It won’t fill a room like the real deal, but it creates a noticeable scent bubble.
Performance Audit
Based on average wear time
Sillage & radius
Relative to market avg
Why we track this:
Price Arbitrage: Significant savings compared to the original Initio pricing.
Community Verified: Cross-referenced against 391 enthusiast votes for accuracy.