I voted yes......I leave mine on.

I belive that the band is part of the whole smoking experience. Just as much as pre-light aroma, etc.

The manufacturer put effort into the design of the band whether it be simple and understated like Montecristo's band or flashy like Sosa's. I like to see it as I smoke. Not a status thing, just a preference.

Is it critical? No.......but I leave it on till the burn gets close, then I take it off.

re: "Bandwagon USA" The site where you send in cigar bands for "discounts" on merchandise - I agree, its an effort of Lew Rothman's to make you think you're getting a bargain. No offense to Lew, I think JR's is a great place to buy cigars, but the Bandwagon bit is just a gimmick to sell crap at a profit while supposedly gathering "trade information". And of course that's just my opinion.