NM 115 TOP delivers exactly what GLOSSMEN fans crave: a perfect storm of vascularity, full-body gloss, and relentless intensity. This isn't just another solo oil session. The "TOP" cut focuses on the model's most dominant moments—maximal flexing, prolonged close-ups of muscle separation, and a finish that leaves nothing to the imagination.
In the early 2000s, men’s grooming was dominated by heavy gels that dried into a stiff, flaky helmet. The NM 115 Top revolutionized this by offering a high-gloss, "wet-look" finish that remained pliable. You could run your fingers through your hair two hours after application without dislodging white flakes.
| Test / Metric | Result | Interpretation | |---------------|--------|----------------| | Gloss retention (after 1000 h Xenon‑arc exposure) | 95 % of initial gloss | Excellent for exterior automotive finishes. | | Yellowing (ΔY) after 500 h UV | ΔY = 0.6 (ISO 4892‑2) | Near‑invisible yellowing – superior to many aromatic PU clear coats. | | Abrasion resistance (Taber 511, 1000 rev, CS‑17) | Wear depth = 10 µm | Comparable to OEM “high‑performance” top coats. | | Water soak test (24 h, 100 % RH) | No blistering, no delamination | Nanoparticle barrier effectively blocks moisture migration. | | Salt‑spray (ASTM B117, 500 h) | No rust-through on primed steel | Ideal for marine and coastal applications. | | Impact resistance (10 J) | No cracking, no chipping | Suitable for high‑impact surfaces (e.g., truck bodies). |
Glossmen NM-115 is classified as a two-component (2K) acrylic polyurethane coating. Like most modern high-performance clear coats, it relies on the reaction between a hydroxyl-functional acrylic resin (Part A) and a polyisocyanate hardener (Part B).
2.1. Resin Technology The acrylic backbone of NM-115 is engineered for high molecular weight, contributing to the product’s inherent "high build" capability. This allows for fewer coats to achieve the required film thickness, reducing labor time while mitigating the risk of solvent entrapment—a common defect in high-build applications.
2.2. Cross-Linking Agent The hardener component utilizes aliphatic polyisocyanates. This chemistry is crucial for exterior durability; the aliphatic structure provides superior resistance to yellowing and chalking compared to aromatic isocyanates. The cross-linking density achieved during the curing process dictates the final hardness and chemical resistance of the film.
2.3. Solvent Balance The solvent carrier system in NM-115 is designed to be "medium-slow," allowing for sufficient flow and leveling time. This is particularly important in large-panel repairs or full-body restorations, where flash-off times must be managed to prevent dry spray or "orange peel" texture.
Because the original is nearly impossible to find, the grooming community is constantly searching for a "dupe" or spiritual successor. If you are looking for a product that mimics the Glossmen NM 115 Top, consider these modern alternatives:
Today, owning a bottle of the original NM 115 Top is a status symbol in grooming collector circles. It is the "White Whale" for men who missed out. Reviewers on YouTube who managed to hoard bottles frequently upload "shelf life tests" to see if the product still performs years later (most report that the water-based formula holds up surprisingly well).
Should you find a bottle (or a high-quality dupe), the application process for the Glossmen NM 115 Top is specific to achieve that "top" level finish.