Talking Horology with Leonid Khankin of Ernst Benz: Why Ernst Benz Watches Deserve a Spot in Your Collection
If you're passionate about mechanical watches, few things are more rewarding than a deep conversation with a fellow enthusiast — especially someone like Leonid Khankin, president, watchmaker and creative director of Ernst Benz. During a recent visit, I had the privilege of spending time with Leonid while his team worked on one of my personal timepieces. He graciously allowed me to try on the GC40318 Chrono Lunar, an impressive example of Ernst Benz’s commitment to functional luxury and tool watch excellence.
A Closer Look at the Ernst Benz GC40318 Chrono Lunar
This 44mm polished stainless steel chronograph is powered by the iconic Valjoux 7751 automatic movement. It offers a full suite of complications: hours, minutes, subsidiary seconds, day, date, month, moonphase, 24-hour display, and a chronograph function with central seconds. The parchment dial with brown numerals and cathedral hands gives it a distinctive and highly legible aesthetic — a key trait in any well-executed tool watch.
Why We Love Ernst Benz Watches at PR Timepieces
Ernst Benz is a brand that blends classic Swiss craftsmanship with a utilitarian, aviation-inspired design philosophy. These watches aren’t about flash — they’re about function, durability, and clarity. That’s exactly why we’re proud to source them for our clients.
At PR Timepieces, we seek out watches that tell a story and stand up to real-world use. Ernst Benz watches deliver both. Whether it’s the sturdy build, reliable Swiss movements, or thoughtful design touches, these are timepieces that look good and perform even better.
The Tool Watch Ethos
The term "tool watch" gets used a lot, but Ernst Benz truly embodies it. Their watches are made to be worn and used — not just admired from the box — with features like double o-ring sealed knurled crowns, anti-reflective domed sapphire crystals, and water resistance up to 50 meters.
The Aviation series, in particular, stands out for its authentic roots, evolving from cockpit instruments like altimeters. It helped pioneer the oversized watch trend with its bold 47mm case and remains true to pilot-watch standards with high legibility: large numerals, luminous hands, and high-contrast dials.
Crafted in Switzerland and infused with American design flair, Ernst Benz offers a distinctive aesthetic and underground appeal—earning a cult following among pilots and collectors alike.
Interested in an Ernst Benz Watch?
We’re always looking to connect fellow collectors with exceptional timepieces, and Ernst Benz is high on our list of brands we’re excited to source more of. If you’re looking for a functional, feature-packed chronograph or a robust everyday watch with real character, reach out to us.
Let’s find the right Ernst Benz for your wrist.
