In 1937 Parfumier Albert Fouquet met a young American on the Côte d’Azur: John F. Kennedy. Captivated by Fouquet's scent, Kennedy persuaded Albert to leave him a sample of his cologne. 

Once Stateside, Kennedy wrote Albert a thank you note requesting an additional eight samples, “and if your production allows, another one for Bob”. Fouquet mailed the samples humorously labeling 'Eight & Bob.'  

Albert was surprised a few months later when he began receiving letters from America with requests from friends of JFK: various Hollywood directors, producers, and actors such as Cary Grant and James Stewart.

In 1939, however, Albert died in an automobile accident near Biarritz.  His butler, Philippe, proceeded with the fulfillment of orders. The final shipments, which coincided with the Nazi occupation/Vichy regime, were concealed within books to escape confiscation by the authorities. 

Production halted soon thereafter.  Years later, the family of Philippe began production of Fouquet's classic scent (and two others: Egypt & Cap d'Antibes), with the product being shipped, naturally, in a carefully hollowed out book. 

A fantastic story? Perhaps. But a good one just the same. 

Available at Amusespot.