Very often, the more you know, the more complicated it gets.

I've been watching this forum for quite some time now and my thanks and compliments for all the fantastic advice, information and reviews that I have read. As with all specialised forums, the rookie can feel intimidated and even despondent. Being unable to comprehend the experts can lead to frustration, and I have to question how much is snobbery as well. Is there also a certain amount of Emperor's new clothes syndrome? I mean, how can the likes of Cool Water and Acqua di Gio be so disliked by so many experts whilst being so popular world wide? It doesn't add up.
I had never even heard of Creed before joining this forum but it was obvious to me that Creed was something special. So off I went to sus it out and yes, they're very nice, even if I haven't the nose to appreciate it. My problem is this, I would love to purchase a couple, probably Adventus and Taberone but you have all put me off. How can I enjoy a fragrance and buy with confidence when you have to be both mathematician and chemist to not get ripped off. I mentioned my concern to the sales lady in Harvey Nichs and she had no idea what I was talking about. At those prices you expect consistency, surely?
So thanks to the experts with all their great advice and information I will now go without, as I would hate to feel a mug and buy a dodgy batch.
I thank you all for introducing me to Burberry London which was perfect for my Christmas vacation and snowy days. I thank you for bringing to my attention the genius of Narciso Rodrigez for him which has become my daily choice, and I thank you for bringing back the great memories I have of the Jovans, Tabac, Aqua de silva's of the fragrance world.
I just wish you hadn't complicated Creed for me as I too would have been converted.

Thank you all for such swift replies and encouragement. For someone with an addictive personality, the world of fragrances is a very, but VERY dangerous ground to be treading on.
@null set I appreciate what you say, however even the top range fragrances are in everyone's reach compared to other addictions. Try comparing it with collecting shoes or watches for example, perfumes are nothing. Without wanting to sound blase, even a bottle of Creed is possible for any working man; it might take months or even years to save enough but you will get there. Meanwhile I'm enjoying learning. Thank you all once again and keep on sharing your knowledge.

You're quite right Kagey when you say buy what you like. The problem is that unless you join forums such as this one you wouldn't even know half the things exist. You'd continue believing that Rolex is the only luxury watch, Clarks and kickers would have the same significance as Crockett and Jones and Aldens Shell Cordovan, a Matalan suit, shirt and tie would be perceived the same as a Super 180's Huddersfield Worsted Savile Row bespoke suit or a T&A Egyptian cotton shirt; I think you get my gist.
@iivanita. I'm refusing to take this interest all the way. Please believe me when I say I have already enough hobbies and passions to keep me busy and broke. If I can in time achieve reasonable knowledge in order to understand half what the experts are experiencing I'll be happy.

Thank you Baldini, that's exactly what I needed to hear. In do like some of their scents, Taberone, GIT, Adventus, in that order. If variation is not noticeable to the layperson I'm happy. Leaky sprayers, ill fitting caps and non perfect labels is, in my opinion, disgraceful.

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@ noirdrakkar I think your current top 10 says it all, "(subject to change)"

Concern sorted. Thank you all for your constructive input. I've tried them, I like them, and today I shall go to Harvey Nichs and buy them. Taberone and GIT to commence, I think.