Oud 24 Hours

Is it Worth It?

Oud 24 Hours is a decent clone, particularly . It captures the essence of Black Orchid, albeit with synthetic edges. If you crave the dark, gourmand feel of Tom Ford's creation but cannot justify the cost, this is a worthwhile alternative. Those seeking a near-identical replication should look elsewhere. However, for a daily driver or budget-conscious fragrance enthusiast, Oud 24 Hours offers solid value.

First Impressions & Dry Down

Oud 24 Hours opens with a blast of truffle and gardenia, a somewhat crude interpretation of Black Orchid's initial impact. The black currant is dialed down, resulting in a less fruity and more earthy opening. The heart attempts to mimic the iconic orchid accord but lands closer to a generic floral spice blend. The spice notes are muddled rather than distinct. It is in the base where the divergence is most apparent. The Mexican chocolate is present, but lacks the luxurious bitterness of Black Orchid's dark chocolate. Patchouli and vanilla contribute a sweet, somewhat synthetic finish. Overall, I'd rate it roughly 90% similar to the original in the opening, dropping to 90% in the drydown due to the cheap vanilla note.

Longevity & Projection

This is a beast in terms of performance. It projects strongly for the first 3-4 hours. Longevity is impressive; I detected it on skin for 8+ hours, even after showering. However, be warned: overspraying will lead to a cloying experience. Two sprays max.