Ultima II Perfumes & Colognes

A cosmetics line that sold itself on chemistry, and a fragrance line that came with it.

Revlon’s laboratory brand

Ultima II was created by Revlon in the 1960s as its premium, science-led line — the products that came with ingredient explanations and a promise of research rather than glamour. It became particularly strong in Asia, where the brand remains better known than in the United States.

Its most famous product, The Nakeds, was an early and influential attempt at a full range of neutral shades.

Counter perfumery

Beauty-counter perfumery in the mid-century American style: soft aldehydic florals, warm powdery bases, and a general air of being designed to be worn every day rather than saved for occasions.

These were never sold as fashion. They were sold beside skincare, to customers who already trusted the brand for something else — which remains one of the most reliable ways to sell fragrance.

Where to find the style now

Cosmetics-house perfumery has become rarer as the industry consolidated, but the instinct survives: pleasant, wearable, unchallenging, priced for regular repurchase.

Its closest relatives on our shelves are Revlon, Estée Lauder and Clinique.