Gentleman (1974) vs Polo

The r/fragrance community views Gentleman (1974) as a well-executed classic for those genuinely interested in old-school barbershop fragrances. It's recommended as a relatively safe blind buy for fans of similar scents like Azzaro and Paco Rabanne Pour Homme, though the heavy patchouli and animalic notes may be challenging for younger wearers or those hesitant about civet-heavy fragrances.

The Polo line by Ralph Lauren receives mixed reviews from the r/fragrance community. While recognized as accessible entry-level fragrances with decent quality, many experienced enthusiasts find the original scents plain or generic compared to niche alternatives. Specific flankers like Polo Blue Gold Blend and Ultra Blue attract more enthusiasm, though some users actively avoid the brand due to overexposure in casual party settings.