Citizen · Water-Resistant Smart Rings & Bands
Citizen Navihawk Eco-Drive Silicone Watch Band
Silicone watch band rarely contains PFAS-based treatment.
Silicone elastomer naturally lacks PFAS. Citizen does not disclose treatment; typical silicone bands have lower concern than coated textiles.
The better-graded swap
Oura
Oura Ring 5 Smart Ring
85/100 safety
Same rubric that flunked this product. The swap earned Excellent.
Still want this one anyway? Check the price on Amazon. We’d swap it.
Material
silicone rubber band
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Silicone degradation and microparticle shedding
Over years of heavy use, silicone can develop microscopic tears or flaking, particularly at stress points (buckle, attachment pins). No recalls or studies specific to Citizen bands document this, but it is a theoretical concern for any elastomer.
Bacterial colonization in band crevices
Silicone's porous surface and tight contact with skin can trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth if not cleaned regularly. This is a hygiene issue rather than a chemical hazard, but relevant to long-term wear.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Allergic contact dermatitis from additives
Silicone bands occasionally contain accelerators, antioxidants, or colorants that can trigger skin sensitivity in rare cases. No specific allergic reactions to Citizen silicone bands are documented in public records.
Formaldehyde / VOCs
If the band is dyed, residual formaldehyde from curing or azo dyes could theoretically persist, though silicone is not typically finished with problematic textile dyes. Citizen does not disclose dye sources.
Source, ATSDR ↗Heavy metals
Colored silicone bands may contain pigments with lead or cadmium, depending on manufacturing quality control. No recalls or testing data for Citizen silicone bands exist in public records.
Source, FDA ↗The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This product uses silicone rubber, a synthetic polymer that is chemically inert and does not leach harmful plasticizers like BPA or phthalates under normal wear conditions. Silicone is more stable than PVC or cheaper plastic elastomers when exposed to skin oils, sweat, and moderate heat. The Eco-Drive branding refers to the watch movement (solar-powered), not the band material, which is standard silicone.
The brand's record and disclosure
Citizen is a large Japanese watchmaker with no publicly documented safety recalls or chemical disclosure controversies tied to silicone watch bands. The brand does not provide detailed material safety data sheets for replacement bands, which is typical for the watch industry but limits transparency. No certifications (e.g., FDA, OEKO-TEX) are commonly advertised for Citizen silicone bands.
How it compares in its category
Silicone watch bands generally have lower concern than leather, metal, or fabric alternatives in terms of chemical off-gassing and leaching. Compared to cheaper rubber or PVC bands, silicone is more durable and resistant to degradation, reducing microparticle shedding over time. Metal bands can carry nickel or other allergens; this silicone band avoids those concerns.
If you buy it
Clean the band regularly with mild soap and water to prevent bacterial buildup in crevices, especially if worn during exercise or in humid conditions. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight for years at a time, as UV can slowly degrade silicone (though this is gradual). Replace the band if it becomes noticeably sticky, discolored, or shows visible cracking, which signals polymer breakdown. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use to extend lifespan.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 78% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Citizen has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
More water-resistant smart rings & bands grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.