Serif Normal Bolus 3 is a very bold, normal width, low contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Classic Round' and 'Classic XtraRound' by Durotype, 'Orgon Slab' by Hoftype, 'Directa Serif' by Outras Fontes, 'PF Centro Slab Press' by Parachute, 'Bree Serif' by TypeTogether, and 'Pentay Slab' by deFharo (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, posters, packaging, signage, branding, friendly, retro, hearty, playful, confident, display impact, warmth, vintage tone, sturdy readability, bracketed, rounded, softened, chunky, compact.
This typeface is a heavy, rounded serif with pronounced bracketed serifs and softened terminals throughout. Strokes are thick and fairly even, with compact counters and gentle curves that keep the forms sturdy rather than delicate. The letterforms lean toward squarish, blocky proportions with subtly bulbous joins and a consistent, punchy rhythm; uppercase shapes feel broad and stable, while lowercase maintains clear, readable silhouettes with simple, sturdy bowls and short, firm serifs.
Best suited to headlines, short copy, and display applications where a bold, approachable serif is desired—such as packaging, labels, menus, signage, and brand marks. It can work for emphasis in editorial layouts, but its dense color and compact counters suggest reserving it for larger sizes or shorter passages.
The overall tone is warm and approachable, with a vintage, “old-style print” flavor that reads as confident and slightly playful. Its weight and rounded detailing give it a friendly, poster-like presence that feels nostalgic without becoming ornate.
The design appears intended to deliver a classic serif voice with extra weight and softened details for maximum impact and friendliness. It prioritizes strong silhouette, consistent texture, and a nostalgic display character over fine contrast or delicate refinement.
At larger sizes the chunky serifs and tight counters create strong texture and high impact; in dense settings it will appear dark and emphatic. Numerals match the same robust, rounded construction, supporting a cohesive typographic color across mixed text and figures.