Scents, Solids And Splendour

Henry Jacques’ Clic-Clac reinvigorates a century-old tradition of personalised flair.

- Wei-Yu Wang

Henry Jacques’ Clic-Clac is, at first, an enigma. At rest, it is a rectangle that fits in the palm. It is largely monolithic, but fineness is evident. Its faces are either lustrous titanium (S$44,475), sleek carbon fibre (S$53,370) or warm rose gold (S$185,015). The metal versions have a brushed finish, but with gleaming, polished chamfered edges.

In the hand, it has some weight and there is a reassuring, inviting solidity. It opens from the middle and this must be how it got its name – a soft click with unmistakable feedback. It shuts somewhat more energetically and even more satisfyingly – clack.

Opening Clic-Clac reveals a coin-sized metal tray that holds a waxy, balm-like solid perfume. This can be swapped out for any of the 50 Les Classiques scents that are a signature of Henry Jacques. These solid capsules join the existing Brumes (spray) and Essences (liquid) offerings. “Each one of these variations is rich in nuances and very interesting to high perfumery lovers,” describes Anne-Lise Cremona, the CEO of Henry Jacques Perfume. Her father, Henry Cremona, founded the brand in 1975. “Brumes brings forward the opening notes and has a delicate, refreshing feeling. Essences and Solids are more skin perfumes. Their evolution through time will be particularly marked and will also change (depending on one’s) skin. They are more sensual, very refined, warm and delicate.