Since 1789 · Amsterdam
Boldoot
Eau de Cologne
Rosemary, orange blossom, and citrus — originating in Cologne, born in Amsterdam, inspired by the art de vivre. Turning everyday special moments into fragrant rituals since 1789.
The house
The water with which Amsterdam made itself recognisable
On 1 May 1789, pharmacist Jacobus Cornelis Boldoot opened his shop at Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 46. Behind the counter he prepared powders, salves and an alcoholic “Cologne water” against migraine and fainting. Within a century Boldoot was purveyor to five Royal Courts and a fragrance found in homes across the Netherlands.
Read the history
The gift presentation
Coffret Impériale
A satin-lined presentation set bringing together Eau de Cologne Impériale and Savon de Luxe in an elaborate floral coffret — the everyday cologne, presented as an occasion.
View this presentation“Klonje is good, but Boldoot is better.”
Amsterdam saying, 1940
Cologne recipes
In 1875 Boldoot acquired a small Cologne firm trading as Johann Maria Farina — with its recipes, but no connection to the original Farina house.
Amsterdam-made
From the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal to the Singel: the scent hung over the inner city.