Agar

Agar by Alexandria Fragrances is a well-rounded, classically masculine woody fragrance inspired by Tom Ford's Oud Wood. It captures the dry, elegant woodiness of the original with a softer, slightly sweeter profile, thanks to prominent cardamom, amber, vanilla, and sandalwood notes. The opening can be sharp or greenish at first with a synthetic edge, but it mellows significantly after a few weeks, revealing a smoother, more balanced dry down that feels cohesive and wearable. It performs best as a skin scent with moderate projection and a keen aromatic presence that lingers into the evening, making it ideal for office settings, night wear, and year-round use. Though it lacks the depth and luxury of the original Tom Ford Oud Wood, the scent evolves pleasantly over time and stands as one of the most reliable and affordable clones in the niche space. The fragrance is most appreciated for its balance of quality and price, offering a close resemblance to the original without the premium cost. It tends to shine in changeable weather, particularly in autumn and winter, and suits those who prefer a subdued, confident presence over bold projection. The long-standing preference for a more refined private scent speaks to its appeal not for attention seekers but for those seeking a subtle yet distinctive signature. One consistent observation is its moderate longevity and sillage—while not overpowering, it often remains detectable for several hours and commonly lasts into the next day. Some users appreciate that it performs better than the original Oud Wood over time, though the overall projection is not robust. The lack of strong sillage and long-lasting performance, combined with its necessity for reapplication, is frequently noted as a limitation.