This fragrance is a masterfully realized piece of work. I instantly remembered trying it a few years ago when I (semi) blind bought it recently. A thoroughly rewarding choice it was too, There's no doubt it's vastly better than anything Gucci have on the shelves currently. Pour Homme II has character, depth, and a charming class about it. Opens freshly, a brisk bergamot and tea and slight hint of violets which makes you think it's some fairly average fodder. However has it dries down the tea gets stronger, a bit drier and musk chimes in to offset any sweet or powdery notes with some bitterness. It's so interesting that the spicy element of cinnamon/hint of tobacco and pimento conjures up a subtle V&R spicebomb type aroma at the heart of this fragrance. PHII predates it obviously but maybe it could be great for those who like the concept of Spicebomb but not the sledgehammer execution. It also reminds me of Penhaligon's Opus 1870 which is a very beautiful scent, a peppery, rose, cedar affair that has a similar feel to this also. But then this has the violet, tea and woody notes that I enjoy too, it's masterpiece of a fragrance and more enjoyable the more you wear it. It's not obtrusive and lasts longer than I'd anticipated on my skin, with mild projection...I'd say average in both departments. The trick here is that PHII is so subdued it could never be annoying or cloying due to a great balance of spicy/sweet/fresh/dry/warm...everything really. My girlfriend instantly loved it too in fact she wore it the minute it arrived (and tried to convince me to give it to her) and it smelled great on her. Love this...can't recommend it highly enough.