Z33

Notes & Nuances

Z33 by Zoghbi attempts to mimic Bond No. 9's B9, and achieves a level of resemblance, perhaps around 91%. The opening presents a saffron note that, while present, lacks the nuanced spice of the original; it's a touch synthetic. Gardenia peeks through, slightly sharper than in B9. The heart aims for amber, jasmine, and orchid. The amber is a generalized sweetness; the jasmine is present but subdued, not indolic enough. I detect a ghost of orchid; it's subtle. The base leans heavily on musk. Sandalwood is present, but reads as a sandalwood accord rather than the real deal. Oakmoss offers a grounding touch, but lacks the depth of true oakmoss. The main difference lies in the quality of ingredients. Z33 uses cheaper aromachemicals to approximate B9.

Projection Power

Longevity is acceptable, pushing about 5-6 hours on my skin. Projection is moderate for the first hour, creating a small scent bubble. After that, it settles close to the skin. Decent, but not beast mode.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Z33 is a passable B9 clone, suitable if budget is a primary concern. The synthetic edges are noticeable upon close inspection, but in the air, it gets the general idea across. If you're seeking a near-identical experience, save up for the original. However, for those wanting a B9-esque scent without the exorbitant price tag, Z33 is a reasonable option. If you can tolerate a slight compromise in quality, it's a decent value.