\033 should be used in printf in the FAQ.

Never apply patches of Apple users without shouting at them. The basic rule of
nature is that when you apply Appl users patches without shouting at them that
something will go horribly wrong.

FAQ

@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ sequences.
 But buggy applications like bash and irssi for example don't do this. A fast
 solution for them is to use the following command:
 
-	$ printf "<EFBFBD>33?1h<31>33=" >/dev/tty
+	$ printf "\033?1h\033=" >/dev/tty
 
 or
 	$ echo $(tput smkx) >/dev/tty