NINE FLAGS
Launched in 1965, the Nine Flags men’s shaving cologne collection embodied the spirit of adventure, global exploration, and the era’s fascination with international sophistication. Distributed by the Colton Company of Boston, Massachusetts, and marketed by Gillette in the United Kingdom, the collection positioned itself as more than just a grooming product—it was an olfactory passport, inviting men to experience the world through scent. Each cologne in the line was named after a different country, with the fragrance said to incorporate essential oils sourced from that nation before being blended in the United States.
The name Nine Flags evokes a sense of cultural diversity, travel, and prestige. While the number nine does not directly correlate with the number of fragrances in the collection—there were at least twelve at different points—the phrase suggests a multinational theme, perhaps referencing an imagined fraternity of nations, a collection of iconic destinations, or a tribute to places known for their rich natural ingredients. The imagery conjured by Nine Flags is one of cosmopolitan elegance, where a man could select his fragrance much like he might choose his next destination. Whether inspired by the crisp air of Sweden (Clear Spruce), the tobacco fields of Brazil (Aromatic Tabac), or the citrus groves of Italy (Dry Citrus), each scent reflected a romanticized essence of its namesake country.
The mid-1960s was an era of transformation. Air travel had become increasingly accessible, leading to the rise of the Jet Set lifestyle—where the wealthy and aspirational elite traveled frequently, indulging in European escapades, Caribbean vacations, and exotic adventures. The Cold War shaped global politics, while the Space Race fueled an obsession with progress and exploration. Culturally, the British Invasion dominated the music scene, Mod fashion redefined style, and Sean Connery’s James Bond films epitomized a new ideal of masculinity—suave, sophisticated, and internationally minded.
