What Is DUA Emperor’s Elixir a Dupe Of?

DUA Emperor’s Elixir is a clone of Van Cleef & Arpels Tsar. That’s the original behind this pairing and the bottle to compare it with if you’re deciding which version of the scent to try.

What’s the connection?

This one points back to Tsar, with a long list of herbs, green notes, woods and moss. It’s a useful pairing if you enjoy the idea of an older-style aromatic fragrance with plenty going on. We’d follow the lavender and pine first, then see how much of the leather, oakmoss and woody side comes through in a sample.

How do the notes compare?

DUA Emperor’s Elixir lists Green Notes, Lavender, Artemisia, Rosemary, Coriander, Bergamot, Cinnamon and Neroli. Van Cleef & Arpels Tsar lists Green Notes, Lavender, Artemisia, Rosemary, Bergamot, Coriander, Cinnamon and Neroli.

Both lists include Green Notes, Lavender, Artemisia, Rosemary and Coriander, giving you a few clear points to follow in a sample. For DUA Emperor’s Elixir, also look for Juniper Berry and Cedar Wood. The original’s list also includes Juniper Berries and Cedar.

What would we look for in a sample?

We’d give both fragrances a similar number of sprays on separate wrists, then come back after the opening settles. Check the parts you enjoy most: the brightness at the start, the balance through the middle and the way the finish feels close to skin.

Which one would we buy?

We’d start with DUA Emperor’s Elixir if you want DUA’s interpretation of this scent. If the original’s exact balance is what you love, Van Cleef & Arpels Tsar is the reference to try. Compare the available bottle sizes, shipping cost and return terms before choosing. A sample or smaller bottle can be a good first purchase, especially when one particular note is the reason you’re interested. Current retailer options are shown above. Use the price for the size you actually plan to order, and check the delivery estimate if you need the fragrance for a particular date.