[SoftTalker]

Are you talking about the dual rows of 12 function keys across the top, as in the old mainframe 3270 terminals?

Or the "Model F" keyboard with the two vertical rows of 5 keys on the left edge of the keyboard?

For me, full-size function keys are the minimum. Granted that real-estate is at a premium on laptops but this isn't an impossible ask IMO.

[account42]

Well he did say they designed it in 1985 which somewhat narrows it down.

I have to agree with gp, the Model M layout is what I consider the "default" and there is very little reason to deviate from it.