Calypso (1959)
by Robert Piguet

Calypso (2010 formulation)

Calypso fulfil the basic principle of perfumery for which a fragrance should, first of all, smell good. While this statement may sound obvious, we witnessed too many examples of perfumes smellng like crap (really too many to mention).

A strong bitter geranium and unripe mandarin opening turning into a middle phase where rose makes its appearance with a remarkable presence together with iris. The general lush vibe is enriched by musc and hints of suede that perfectly blend together all the previous elements into a classic floral chypre. Elegant, rich and formal. Maybe not so distinctive and unique and surely not the most successful among the Piguet offering but it still smells damn good.

22nd July, 2011. (Last Edited: 5th September, 2011.)

Sadly, The reblend does not seem to live up to the original. I have not smelled the original but after reading the reviews here, I can't say that it is powerful, biting, or strong. It feels like a warmer version of Baghari. Yes, there is a subtle animalic basenote, but over all it isn't any more striking or unique than many other slightly sweet, mildly spicy vanilla scents. It is very pleasant; it makes easy, lengthy transitions, but I don't see anything unique enough to warrant buying a second bottle-yet. It is my first afternoon with it. The blend leans more to the masculine side than Baghari and I appreciate that. I think I was expecting a spicier, warmer Bandit, a sort of cardamom, galbanum, leathery incense blend. Indeed, I would like there to be more of a Piguet Punch to this one.

17th September, 2010.

I've smelt the reissue - it launched at Harrods, London, this week. It seemed rather sweet to me. I need to spend more time with it of course but would love to know how the new version compares with the old.

17th July, 2010.

A classic chypre/green floral: bitingly green (galbanum and oakmoss, I'm sure), spicy, dry, slightly musty, with subtly animalic basenotes and no sweetness. I hope it'll be reissued!

1st May, 2010.

The original Calypso, alas discontinuated is a very powerful floral, maybe a narcissus effect, with the same personnality as the others Piguet, a strong personnality, with an incredibly weird green note, but I think different from galbanum. It seems to be a 50's frag and I love it! For those who know it , it's like Guerlain Chypre 53. Piguet seems to reissue it but will it be the same??

24th April, 2010.