Yes, you can change the band on most Citizen watches
Most Citizen watches have removable bands that you can swap out yourself using basic tools. The process takes about five minutes and costs nothing if you already own a spring bar tool — the small metal device that releases the pins holding the band to the case. You do not need to send the watch to Citizen or visit a jeweler unless the watch has a permanently attached bracelet, which is rare on Citizen models.
The band type matters. Citizen makes watches with three main attachment styles: spring bar (the most common), screw-down bars, and integrated bracelets. Spring bar bands are the easiest to change yourself. Screw-down bars require a slightly different technique but are still straightforward. Integrated bracelets are welded or riveted to the case and cannot be removed without professional equipment.
Key Takeaways
- Spring bar bands, used on most Citizen watches, can be removed and replaced with a spring bar tool, which costs $5 to $15 and is reusable.
- Screw-down bars require a small screwdriver instead of a spring bar tool but follow the same basic removal process.
- Replacement bands for Citizen watches range from $20 for basic leather to $150 for metal bracelets, and you can buy them from Citizen directly, Amazon, or watch band retailers.
- If your Citizen watch has an integrated bracelet, the band cannot be changed without professional tools and should be serviced by a jeweler or Citizen.
How to remove a spring bar band
Place the watch face-down on a soft cloth or towel to protect the crystal. Position the spring bar tool — a small metal rod with a notch at one end — into the gap between the band and the case at the lug (the small metal post where the band attaches). Push gently inward toward the center of the watch. You will feel the spring bar compress slightly.
While holding the tool in place, gently pull the band away from the case with your other hand. The band should slide out smoothly. If it does not move, you may be pushing on the wrong spot — the gap should be directly under the lug, not above or below it. Repeat this process on the other side of the watch to remove the band completely.
To install a new band, line up the spring bar holes on both sides of the new band with the lugs on the watch case. Push one side of the band onto the lug first, then use the spring bar tool to compress the spring bar on that side while you slide the other end of the band onto the opposite lug. The band should sit flush against the case when both sides are seated.
Removing and installing screw-down bars
Screw-down bars are less common on Citizen watches but appear on some dive models and vintage pieces. Instead of a spring mechanism, these bars are held in place by small screws on the underside of the lugs. You will need a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver — check the screw head to determine which one fits.
Place the watch face-down and locate the screw on the underside of each lug. Turn the screw counterclockwise slowly and carefully; these screws are small and straightforward to strip or drop. Once both screws are removed, the band will slide out. To install a new band, align it with the lugs, insert the screws, and turn clockwise until snug — do not overtighten, as this can crack the lug or strip the screw.
Where to buy replacement Citizen watch bands
Citizen sells replacement bands through its official website and authorized retailers. A genuine Citizen leather band typically costs $30 to $60, while metal bracelets range from $80 to $150 depending on the model. You will need your watch model number to order the correct band, which you can find on the case back or in your warranty paperwork.
Third-party retailers like Amazon, Etsy, and dedicated watch band sites offer compatible bands at lower prices — often $15 to $40 for leather and $40 to $80 for metal. These bands fit Citizen watches with standard spring bars but may not match the original finish or quality exactly. Read the product description carefully to confirm the band width matches your watch; Citizen watches typically use 18mm, 20mm, or 22mm bands.
If you are unsure of your watch model or band width, measure the distance between the two lugs on your current band in millimeters. This measurement is the band width you need to order.
What to do if the band is stuck or damaged
If the spring bar will not compress or the band will not budge, the spring bar may be corroded or the band may be glued in place. Do not force it — forcing can bend the lug or damage the case. Instead, explore a small amount of penetrating oil like WD-40 around the gap and let it sit for 30 minutes, then try again gently.
If the band is cracked, torn, or the spring bar is visibly bent, replacement is the only option. Attempting to repair a damaged band usually costs more than buying a new one. If you damage the lug itself during removal — for example, by bending it or stripping the screw hole — that requires professional repair and should be handled by a jeweler or Citizen service center.
Identifying whether your Citizen watch has a removable band
Look at the lugs on both sides of the watch case where the band attaches. If you can see a small gap between the band and the case, or if you can see a screw head on the underside of the lug, the band is removable. If the band appears to be one solid piece with the case and there is no visible gap or screw, it is an integrated bracelet and cannot be changed at home.
Some Citizen sports watches and dive models have integrated bracelets that are riveted or welded to the case. These are designed to be durable and water-resistant but cannot be swapped without professional equipment. If your watch falls into this category, you can still change the appearance by adding a watch strap over the existing bracelet, though this is not a true band replacement.
Tools and supplies you will need
A spring bar tool is the only essential tool for most Citizen watches. You can buy one for $5 to $15 at any watch retailer, jewelry supply store, or online. Spring bar tools are reusable and will last indefinitely, so this is a one-time purchase. Some come with multiple tips for different band types.
For screw-down bars, you will need a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver — check which one fits before you start. A soft cloth or towel protects the watch crystal while you work. A magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe is helpful if the screws are very small and hard to see. Keep removed screws in a small container so you do not lose them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing the band void my Citizen watch warranty?
No. Changing the band yourself does not void the warranty. Citizen considers the band a replaceable part, and the warranty covers the movement and case, not the band. However, if you damage the case or lugs during removal, that damage is not covered by warranty.
Can I use any band on my Citizen watch?
Any band with the correct width will fit your Citizen watch physically, but the fit and appearance may not be ideal. Genuine Citizen bands are designed to match the case finish and proportions. Third-party bands work fine but may look slightly different or wear differently over time.
What is the most common band width for Citizen watches?
Most Citizen dress watches and sports watches use 20mm or 22mm bands. Smaller dress watches may use 18mm. Check your current band or the product manual to confirm before ordering a replacement.
Can I change the band on a Citizen smartwatch?
Some Citizen smartwatches have removable bands, but not all. Check the product manual or contact Citizen directly to confirm whether your specific model has a removable band. Many smartwatches use proprietary attachment systems that differ from traditional spring bars.
How often should I replace the band on my Citizen watch?
Leather bands typically last two to five years depending on wear and care. Metal bracelets last much longer but may need cleaning or adjustment over time. Replace the band when it shows visible cracks, tears, or permanent stains, or when the attachment points become loose.