I sent my watch off to repair and they replaced with no watch band

Maybe you should also let Apple know about your experience by using this Feedback link.

Feedback - Apple Watch - Apple

Apple does not follow these discussions, this is the only way to make them aware of issues or wishes.

I had to send in my old Apple Watch 5 for battery service at the beginning of this year. Apple sent me a box, including a piece of paper with instructions, for sending it in. And there was no room for anything else than the watch without the wrist band.

I guess, it will be very hard for the Apple Watch service center to keep track of a sent in wrist band, since it can't be identified anymore as part of your watch, once it is removed from it.

After testing your watch, it probably got shipped to another service center, where it will be refurbished, and a different service center sent out the replacement directly to your address, without ever coming into contact with your old watch or wrist band.

You are getting mad at Apple for your own mistake.

1. You get an insert that tells you how to prepare the watch and to keep all accessories.
2. When you set up the service you get emailed the instructions as well.
3. Apple also post these instructions on their support pages. Get your Apple Watch ready for service - Apple Support

Sorry, but usually Apple will provide instructions for sending in the Apple Watch for service, stating that you do not need to include anything else than the watch itself, and no wristband or other accessory, unless noted.

So you don’t consider Apple giving you physical instructions in the box and emailing you instructions taking care of their customers? The instructions very clearly state that if you mistakenly send it in it won’t be returned.

Many people don’t find difficulty in contacting Apple, or setting up their own service or appointments as they offers multiple ways to contact them, or to do self service. However, contacting Apple isn’t your issue you’re just bringing it up because you’re upset and just want another reason to be ticked off at them, which is a tough emotional reaction when upset.

It’s an unfortunate circumstance you’re in but it’s one you created. it’s your choice if you decide to buy the exact same band from Apple for $69, or shop around for other options at a more affordable cost.

In the end, it’s your personal choice what you do going forward but you’re blaming the wrong person and not taking accountability.

We are all users here, just like you, and we can not access your personal service data.

If the official Apple Support can not help you to get your send in accessory back, there is no other way than to buy a new wrist band for your Apple Watch.

Try to read the instructions next time. Also, assume your mistake and be careful with other instruction. They were clear enough, you just had to read them. Apple is not at fault for your mistake. It takes 5 minutes to read the guideline and it covers for mistakes like this one. It’s not pleasant when people blame others because they didn’t do what was expected from them to do.