comparing typefaces 1: a tale of two sabons

The Sabons of Linotype and Monotype are quite similar, but there are some subtle differences; I’ve made a partial list. Compared to the Monotype version, the Linotype version:

1. Is slightly heavier
2. Has somewhat lower contrast between thin and thick strokes
3. Is larger, which is typical for a Linotype-to-Monotype comparison; to achieve equal x-height, Monotype Sabon must be enlarged by roughly 7%
4. Has a more angular lower case roman a and f; note the increased curvature of the ascender in the Monotype roman f versus the Linotype version; compare also the cross-strokes of the f
5. May have a greater axis angle in the italic; compare the g’s in the example shown; notice also the differences in the teardrop terminals in this letter
6. Has that extra bit of space – almost too small to measure, yet discernable enough – after the lower case roman a. Or perhaps the spacing is a bit off overall. Or perhaps it’s just my imagination...

11-July 2002