Serif Normal Onba 14 is a bold, normal width, medium contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Ltt Recoleta' and 'Recoleta' by Latinotype, 'Breve News' and 'Nitida Text Plus' by Monotype, 'Hyperon' and 'Selina' by ParaType, and 'Criterion' by URW Type Foundry (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: editorial, book typography, headlines, branding, packaging, classic, bookish, authoritative, traditional, scholarly, readability, heritage tone, editorial voice, strong presence, bracketed serifs, ball terminals, oldstyle numerals, softened joins, compact counters.
A robust serif with bracketed serifs and softly sculpted joins. Strokes are thick and steady with moderate contrast, and many terminals end in rounded or teardrop-like forms that give the face a slightly warm, inked feel. Proportions read as conventional for text, with a stable rhythm and clear differentiation between verticals and curves; uppercase forms are broad and confident, while lowercase shows compact counters and sturdy stems. The figures appear oldstyle in construction, with varied heights and descenders that integrate smoothly with the text texture.
Well suited to editorial settings such as magazines, journals, and book typography where a strong, traditional serif voice is desired. It also works effectively for headlines, identity systems, and packaging that benefit from a confident, heritage-leaning texture.
The overall tone is classic and bookish, projecting authority without feeling sharp or severe. Rounded terminals and gentle bracketing add a friendly, editorial warmth that suggests print tradition and established institutions.
The design appears intended to deliver a conventional, readable serif with a darker, more assertive presence, combining classic proportions with softened details to keep the texture inviting in continuous text and commanding in titles.
The heavier color and firm serifs create strong word shapes at display and heading sizes, while the consistent modulation helps maintain an even line of text. Letterforms like the two-storey “g” and the full, rounded bowls contribute to a traditional reading experience.