Archer

Designer: H&FJ staff // Foundry: Hoefler & Frere-Jones // Country of origin: United States Release year: 2008 // Classification: Geometric Slab

Most Geometric slabs are cold and rigid, but Archer has a sweet, almost dainty nature. The main contributors to its complexion are the small ball terminals that frequently occur, even on the “s,” a letter that rarely gets that treatment (see also Filosofia). But Archer also feels approachable because it avoids the monotony of other Geometrics. The legs of the “M” are mildly angled rather than rigidly vertical. The “c” and “e” end in an outward stroke rather than closing in a tight circle. The relatively low x-height of Archer also gives it a more gentle, antique touch. Like most H&FJ families, Archer is packed with weights and features for complex typesetting. Good for: Informal but proper announcements. Facts and figures with a positive slant. Cookbooks.