The story of J.F. Schwarzlose Berlin begins in 1856 with piano maker Joachim Friedrich Schwarzlose. He opened a pharmacy and colonial goods store in Berlin, near Gendarmenmarkt, hoping to secure a future for his eleven children. What started as a simple pharmacy evolved into one of Germany's most prestigious perfume houses.

Two of his sons, Kurt and Max, specialized in perfume production. In 1869, the family acquired the title of royal purveyor to the court. A major milestone came in 1895 with the acquisition of Treu & Nuglisch, an established fragrance manufacturer that had been a court purveyor since the 1820s. This merger significantly enhanced the company's reputation among imperial and royal personages.

Under Ernst Köthner, the founder's grandson, the company expanded internationally. Exports to Europe, Asia, and Australia brought substantial revenue. Trade with the Chinese Imperial Court proved particularly lucrative, even during World War I.

World War II brought the end of the original era. In 1944, the factory and shops were destroyed. Anni Köthner rebuilt the factory in Berlin-Moabit in 1951 using Marshall Plan funds. However, the business ceased operations in 1976 when the Berlin Senate designated Moabit as a strictly residential area.

In 2012, packaging designer Lutz Herrmann and communication expert Tamas Tagscherer revived the brand. Working with perfumer Véronique Nyberg as the creative nose, they connect historical heritage with contemporary perfumery. The philosophy remains "Tradition and Quality since 1856," but the new perfumes mirror modern Berlin – confident, cosmopolitan, original, and authentic, beyond mainstream trends.

The revived J.F. Schwarzlose Berlin collection unites historical inspiration with contemporary perfume artistry. 1A-33 stands as the brand's flagship, embodying this philosophy. Named after the former Berlin license plate – 1A for Berlin, 33 for the Moabit location – this modern reinterpretation of a 1950s bestseller combines linden blossom, magnolia, and jasmine with fresh mandarin and spicy red pepper.

Leder 6 represents Berlin's wild side. Inspired by the club scene and conceived as a reinterpretation of the historical "Spanisch Leder" from 1921, this fragrance combines sensual leather notes with saffron blossom, frankincense, and Japanese styrax resin. The composition captures the provocative eroticism of bygone days and brings it into modernity.

Rausch embodies Berlin's legendary nightlife. With spicy chords and a hint of noble oud, this fragrance reflects the dark and mysterious club scene of the capital. The combination of red pepper, warm amber, and smoky oud creates an intoxicating effect.

20|20 celebrates the anniversary of the Golden Twenties. This "Feel Good" fragrance for the 2020s contrasts pure hippie patchouli with the cool, velvety freshness of rose and geranium. Noble woody notes provide warmth and depth.

Perfumer Véronique Nyberg from International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) is responsible for all modern creations. She uses precious natural ingredients and skillfully combines them with modern aroma molecules. The high concentration of perfume oils ensures exceptional intensity and longevity. The brand emphasizes sustainable sourcing, with 100% of ingredients and packaging sourced sustainably in Europe.

J.F. Schwarzlose Berlin positions itself as a connoisseur brand in the high-end perfume segment. The fragrances target fragrance lovers and individualists who appreciate unique, confident, and cosmopolitan compositions beyond mainstream trends. At €209 for 100ml Eau de Parfum, the brand operates in the premium niche perfumery range.

The brand was selected for inclusion in "The Major German Brands" publication by the German Design Council and won the 2017 Art & Olfaction Award for Altruist. These accolades underscore the quality and industry recognition.

Sustainability plays a central role in the modern approach. All ingredients and packaging are sustainably sourced in Europe, primarily from Germany, France, and Italy. Privileging local businesses has been a crucial ethical principle since the 2012 revival.

The Art Deco-style glass flacons with heavy bases and handcrafted brass caps reflect the quality of their contents. Production relies on small batches and largely handmade processes. The striking design embodies the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The fragrances are available through select retailers, including historic partners like Berlin's KaDeWe. Limited availability underscores the exclusive character of the brand. For interested customers, Parfinity offers the opportunity to order samples and test the fragrances before purchasing.

The brand successfully connects Berlin authenticity with international appeal. It speaks to people who value quality, history, and individuality. The fragrances tell stories – from the golden era of the 1920s to the pulsating energy of modern Berlin. Each scent serves as an olfactory bridge between past and present, tradition and innovation.