Serif Normal Arbab 3 is a bold, normal width, very high contrast, italic, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Dutch 801' and 'Dutch 801 WGL' by Bitstream and 'Nimbus Roman No. 9 L' by URW Type Foundry (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: editorial, book covers, magazines, headlines, invitations, elegant, literary, formal, dramatic, classic, editorial voice, classic refinement, expressive emphasis, premium tone, bracketed, calligraphic, wedge serifs, oldstyle, flowing.
This typeface is a slanted serif with pronounced thick–thin modulation and a distinctly calligraphic rhythm. Serifs are sharp and wedge-like with gentle bracketing, and terminals often end in tapered, angled strokes that reinforce the forward motion. Uppercase forms feel stately and slightly condensed in stance, while lowercase letters show a flowing, oldstyle structure with lively joins and a moderate x-height. Overall spacing and proportions create a dynamic texture where counters stay open but strokes snap to fine hairlines at transitions.
Well suited to editorial headlines, pull quotes, and magazine typography where a sophisticated, energetic serif is desired. It can work for book covers, cultural branding, and formal materials like invitations or programs, especially at larger sizes. For longer passages, it benefits from comfortable size and spacing to keep the fine strokes from feeling overly dense.
The overall tone is elegant and literary, with a refined, formal presence that reads as classic rather than ornamental. Its energetic slant and high-contrast detailing add drama and sophistication, suggesting editorial polish and premium branding. The texture feels lively and expressive without becoming decorative or script-like.
The design appears intended to deliver a classic, print-forward serif voice with added motion and emphasis through a consistent slant and sharp, tapered detailing. Its letterforms aim to balance tradition with expressive contrast, producing a refined texture that stands out in titles and prominent text.
In text settings the strong contrast produces a crisp, shimmering pattern, and the pointed serifs and angled terminals create a sense of speed and emphasis. Numerals and capitals maintain the same calligraphic logic, helping mixed-case and alphanumeric lines feel consistent. The style favors display sizes or generous leading where hairlines and joins have room to breathe.