Vintage Bvlgari Guide: Batch Codes & Black

Note: For general tips on dating packaging (barcodes, EMB codes) and storage, see our Vintage Perfume Collector's Handbook.

Dating vintage Bvlgari perfumes is essential for fans of Bvlgari Black, Pour Femme, and Au The Vert. Unlike many houses, Bvlgari used a fairly consistent numbering system, but the acquisition by LVMH changed formulations.

1. Batch Code Decoding

The Standard Format (1990s – Present)

Bvlgari uses a mixed alphanumeric code, but the logic usually relies on the First Character.

Format: 5-9 characters (e.g., P1234, 00B12B1).
Rule (Rough Guide):
- First Digit/Letter often cycles.
- 2000s Era: Look for the First Number.
  - 0... = 2000
  - 1... = 2001
  - ...
  - 9... = 2009
- 2010s Era:
  - 10... = 2010
  - 20... or 11... = 2011 (System gets messy here).

Pro Tip: For Bvlgari, the Scannon/Box design is often more reliable than the code itself for early years.

2. Key Dating Clues

Address & Production

"Made in Italy": Almost all Bvlgari is made in Italy.
"Neuchatel, Suisse": Corporate headquarters often listed.

Bvlgari Black (The Hockey Puck)

Launched in 1998. Discontinued in 2016/2017.

Vintage: Look for the matte rubber finish. Towards the end of production, some users reported the rubber becoming "sticky" or the formulation weakening.
Scent: Famous for its "burning rubber / vanilla" accord.

Bvlgari Pour Femme (1994)

Vintage: Look for the simple gold cap and "Bvlgari Parfums" branding.

Au The Vert (1992)

The Original: Jean-Claude Ellena's groundbreaking tea scent.
Vintage: Early bottles were marketed heavily as "Cologne" with simpler packaging.

3. Discontinued Gems

Bvlgari Black: Prices have skyrocketed.
Bvlgari Blv Put Homme: The blue juice.
Jasmin Noir (Original): Replaced by "Splendida Jasmin Noir" (different scent).