Serif Normal Oldav 1 is a bold, very narrow, medium contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Gloucester' by Monotype (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, subheads, editorial, posters, packaging, authoritative, traditional, formal, dramatic, space economy, strong presence, classic tone, headline focus, bracketed, vertical, compact, high-ink, sturdy.
A compact serif with tall proportions, firm vertical stress, and clearly bracketed serifs. Strokes are sturdy with moderate contrast and rounded joins that soften the otherwise rigid, columnar construction. Curves are tight and slightly condensed, producing a dense rhythm in text, while terminals often finish with small, sculpted wedges. Overall spacing and counters are restrained, giving the face a dark, concentrated color at typical reading sizes.
Well suited to headlines and subheads where space is limited but a classic serif voice is desired. It can work for editorial layouts, book or magazine titling, and packaging that benefits from a traditional, assertive tone. In longer passages it will read best with generous leading and careful tracking to offset the dense, compact texture.
The tone is traditional and authoritative, leaning toward editorial and institutional usage. Its narrow, high-ink presence adds drama and urgency, suggesting headline seriousness rather than casual warmth. The classic serif cues keep it rooted in conventional print culture while the condensed rhythm pushes it toward impactful display.
The design appears intended to deliver a conventional serif voice in a condensed footprint, prioritizing impact and economy of space. Its bracketed serifs and sturdy stems aim for a familiar, print-rooted feel while maintaining enough contrast and shaping to keep text lively at display sizes.
The figures and capitals appear built for strong vertical alignment, with uniform, poster-like presence across the set. In running text the dense texture and compact counters make it feel purposeful and emphatic, especially in all-caps or short lines.