One of the strongest characteristics of the Swiss style typography is the use of sans-serif typefaces such as Akzidenz Grotesk, Univers and Neue Haas Grotesk. The Swiss Style advocates that the typeface does not have to be expressive in itself, it must be an unobtrusive instrument of expression.
The Swiss utilised font size as tool for readability, impact and rhythm. Different font-sizes not only generate visual impact, but also provide readers with a hint about the hierarchy of the presented data. The larger words act as entry points for the eye, the is an extremely efficient method of guiding the readers eyes through the pages content.
Univers
In 1954 the French type foundry Deberny & Peignot wanted to add a multi weighted linear sans serif type to their portfolio of Lumitype fonts. Adrian Frutiger who at that time was the foundry's art director suggested they avoid adapting an existing typeface. Instead insisting they create a new font that would be more suited for typesetting longer texts. In 1957 they released a multi weighted font called Univers
Helvetica
In 1957 Helvetica was developed at the Haas foundry by Max Miedinger with Eduard Hofmann. Originally named Neue Haas Grotesk, Helevetica was created to compete with Akzidenz-Grotesk in the Swiss market. The aim of Helvetica was to create a neutral typeface that had great clarity, had no intrinsic meaning in its form and is versatile, enabling it to be used on a wide variety of signage. Neue Haas Grotesk was changed to Helvetica (Swiss in Latin) in 1960
"Helvetica was a real step from the 19th century typeface... We were impressed by that because it was more neutral, and neutralism was a word that we loved. It should be neutral. It shouldn't have a meaning in itself. The meaning is in the content of the text and not in the typeface." Wim Crouwel
Akzidenz-Grotesk
Akzidenz-Grotesk was designed by Günter Gerhard Lange and issued by the H. Berthold AG type foundry in 1896. It was the first sans serif typeface to be widely used in design, was used as a model for creating Helvetica a whole 60 years later, and was a heavy influence in the creation of Univers and Folio.