Muelhens, the former parent company of renowned brands 4711 and Tosca, has an intriguing history. In 2006, the 4711 business was acquired by Mäurer & Wirtz, marking a significant transition.

The story of the brand 4711 dates back to the late 18th century, when Johann Maria Farina developed a captivating fragrance known as Eau de Cologne. Farina drew inspiration from his residence in the city of Cologne, hence the name of the fragrance. It quickly gained popularity and caught the attention of Wilhelm Mülhens, who eventually acquired all rights and licenses associated with the fragrance. However, Mühlhens’ attempt to sell rights and licenses to more than 20 individuals was deemed illegal and was subsequently nullified by the court.

Undeterred, Mülhens partnered with another individual named Farina (unrelated to the fragrance’s creator) and established a company under the name Farina. Sadly, nearly 80 years later, the use of the company name Farina was ruled as unlawful by the court. In response, Ferdinand Mülhens, the grandson of Wilhelm Mülhens, decided to rebrand the company. The chosen name was 4711, which derived from the old house number of the Cologne-based business.

Originally known as Eau de Cologne & Parfümerie Fabrik Glockengasse No. 4711 gegenüber der Pferdepost von Ferd. Mülhens in Köln am Rhein, the company underwent another name change in 1990 to Mülhens GmbH & Co. KG. Four years later, in 1994, Wella, a prominent cosmetics giant, acquired the brand. Wella continued selling the same products under the 4711 brand name established in 1990. Later in 2003, Procter & Gamble purchased Wella and all its subsidiaries, including 4711. However, in 2006, they successfully sold the 4711 brand to Mäurer & Wirtz of Aachen.

The original 4711 Eau de Cologne was first made available to the public in 1792, quickly becoming an iconic fragrance. The term “Eau de Cologne” has since become synonymous with light and refreshing scents, typically lower in concentration, intended for personal rejuvenation rather than leaving a lasting trail of perfume.

In 1921, the brand introduced a perfume for women called Tosca. This fragrance boasted a harmonious blend of aldehydes, animalic notes, and floral accords, becoming a beloved staple in many women’s wardrobes for decades. Another notable addition to the brand’s portfolio was My Melody Dreams in 1979, a fragrance targeting young girls and teenagers, which has since gained popularity among adult women.

Following their acquisition of the Mülhens business from Procter & Gamble, Mäurer & Wirtz expanded the product range of the 4711 brand with various 4711 edition fragrances. It is worth noting that Designer Muelhens has an extensive fragrance base, with 13 perfumes dating as far back as 1938 and as recent as 1999. Muelhens holds a cherished place as a venerable perfume house with a rich legacy.