XML 60 R46.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v3.3.1.900

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended			44 Months Ended
	May. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Percent of net sales derived from operations outside United States				68.00%	70.00%	71.00%
Foreign currency transactions disclosures				Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in net income in the consolidated statements of operations and were not material for the years presented.	Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in net income in the consolidated statements of operations and were not material for the years presented.	Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in net income in the consolidated statements of operations and were not material for the years presented.
Percent of net sales to pharmaceutical industry				54.00%	53.00%	52.00%
Long-term investments		$ 2,000,000	$ 2,000,000	$ 2,000,000	$ 2,000,000		$ 2,000,000
Advertising expense				11,000,000	12,000,000	$ 11,000,000
Acquired in-process research and development (Note 2)		3,855,000	15,456,000	3,855,000	$ 15,456,000
Potential payments under licensing arrangements		12,000,000		$ 12,000,000			12,000,000
Maximum percentage of net sales to an individual customer				2.00%	2.00%	2.00%
Cash Equivalents and Investments [Line Items]
Cash equivalents description				Cash equivalents represent highly liquid investments, with original maturities of 90 days or less, primarily in bank deposits, U.S. treasury bill money market funds and commercial paper.
Cash, cash equivalents and investments		2,399,000,000	2,055,000,000	$ 2,399,000,000	$ 2,055,000,000		2,399,000,000
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Sales Returns Roll Forward [Abstract]
Allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns, balance at beginning of period				7,179,000	7,057,000	$ 8,240,000
Additions to allowance for doubtful accounts and sales returns				6,739,000	7,551,000	4,386,000
Deductions from allowance for doubtful accounts and sales returns				(6,422,000)	(7,429,000)	(5,569,000)
Allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns, balance at end of period		7,496,000	7,179,000	$ 7,496,000	7,179,000	7,057,000	7,496,000
Allowance for doubtful accounts description				Past due balances over 90 days and over a specified amount are reviewed individually for collectibility.
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net		333,355,000	321,583,000	$ 333,355,000	$ 321,583,000		333,355,000
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Number of reporting units for goodwill impairment testing				2
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years				8 years	8 years
Capitalized software development costs for software sold to customers, net		132,000,000	138,000,000	$ 132,000,000	$ 138,000,000		132,000,000
Additions to capitalized software development costs for software sold to customers				35,000,000	33,000,000
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of foreign exchange contracts		116,000,000	110,000,000	116,000,000	110,000,000	104,000,000	116,000,000
Realized (losses) gains on foreign exchange contracts				(2,601,000)	174,000	8,666,000
Unrealized gains (losses) on foreign exchange contracts				742,000	(1,369,000)	361,000
Cumulative net pre-tax (losses) gains on foreign exchange contracts				(1,859,000)	(1,195,000)	9,027,000
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Treasury stock				334,705,000	337,444,000	301,580,000
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term debt		1,493,027,000	1,237,463,000	1,493,027,000	1,237,463,000		1,493,027,000
Warranty Accrual Roll Forward [Abstract]
Accrued warranty liability, balance at beginning of period				13,266,000	12,962,000	12,353,000
Accruals for warranties				8,390,000	8,148,000	8,466,000
Settlements made				(8,307,000)	(7,844,000)	(7,857,000)
Accrued warranty liability, balance at end of period		13,349,000	13,266,000	13,349,000	13,266,000	$ 12,962,000	13,349,000
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		2,041,767,000	1,700,262,000	2,041,767,000	1,700,262,000		2,041,767,000
Other cash equivalents		27,000,000	29,000,000	27,000,000	29,000,000		27,000,000
Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets		35,823,000	33,935,000	35,823,000	33,935,000		35,823,000
Forward foreign exchange contract assets		616,000	123,000	616,000	123,000		616,000
Fair value of total assets measured on a recurring basis		2,105,206,000	1,763,320,000	2,105,206,000	1,763,320,000		2,105,206,000
Contingent consideration		4,215,000	3,612,000	4,215,000	3,612,000		4,215,000
Forward foreign exchange contract liabilities		402,000	651,000	402,000	651,000		402,000
Fair value of total liabilities measured on a recurring basis		4,617,000	4,263,000	4,617,000	4,263,000		4,617,000
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other cash equivalents		27,000,000	29,000,000	27,000,000	29,000,000		27,000,000
Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets		35,823,000	33,935,000	35,823,000	33,935,000		35,823,000
Forward foreign exchange contract assets		616,000	123,000	616,000	123,000		616,000
Fair value of total assets measured on a recurring basis		2,105,206,000	1,763,320,000	2,105,206,000	1,763,320,000		2,105,206,000
Forward foreign exchange contract liabilities		402,000	651,000	402,000	651,000		402,000
Fair value of total liabilities measured on a recurring basis		402,000	651,000	402,000	651,000		402,000
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Contingent consideration		4,215,000	3,612,000	4,215,000	3,612,000		4,215,000
Fair value of total liabilities measured on a recurring basis		4,215,000	3,612,000	$ 4,215,000	$ 3,612,000		4,215,000
Programs authorized by Board of Directors [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Treasury stock shares acquired				2.6	3.1	3.1
Treasury stock				$ 327,000,000	$ 329,000,000	$ 295,000,000
Related to Vesting of Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Treasury stock				7,000,000	8,000,000	$ 6,000,000
May 2014 Program [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program authorization amount	$ 750,000,000
Stock repurchase program remaining amount authorized for future purchases		441,000,000		$ 441,000,000			$ 441,000,000
Stock repurchase program period	3 years
May 2012 Program [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Treasury stock shares acquired							7.6
Treasury stock							$ 750,000,000
Buildings [Member] | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of property, plant and equipment				15 years
Buildings [Member] | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of property, plant and equipment				30 years
Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of property, plant and equipment				5 years
Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of property, plant and equipment				10 years
Production and other equipment [Member] | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of property, plant and equipment				3 years
Production and other equipment [Member] | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of property, plant and equipment				10 years
Internal-Use Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life of property, plant and equipment				10 years
Property, plant and equipment, net		3,000,000	3,000,000	$ 3,000,000	3,000,000		3,000,000
US Treasury Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		627,156,000	626,772,000	627,156,000	626,772,000		627,156,000
US Treasury Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		627,156,000	626,772,000	627,156,000	626,772,000		627,156,000
Foreign Government Debt Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		15,199,000	24,998,000	15,199,000	24,998,000		15,199,000
Foreign Government Debt Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		15,199,000	24,998,000	15,199,000	24,998,000		15,199,000
Corporate Debt Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		1,324,318,000	984,105,000	1,324,318,000	984,105,000		1,324,318,000
Corporate Debt Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		1,324,318,000	984,105,000	1,324,318,000	984,105,000		1,324,318,000
Time Deposits | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		74,947,000	64,240,000	74,947,000	64,240,000		74,947,000
Time Deposits | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		74,947,000	64,240,000	74,947,000	64,240,000		74,947,000
Equity Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		147,000	147,000	147,000	147,000		147,000
Equity Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		147,000	147,000	$ 147,000	147,000		147,000
Purchased intangibles [Member] | Minimum
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years				1 year
Purchased intangibles [Member] | Maximum
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years				15 years
Capitalized software [Member] | Minimum
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years				3 years
Capitalized software [Member] | Maximum
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years				10 years
Patents and other intangibles [Member] | Minimum
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years				1 year
Patents and other intangibles [Member] | Maximum
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years				10 years
Unsecured debt
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term debt		500,000,000	600,000,000	$ 500,000,000	600,000,000		500,000,000
Unsecured debt | Fixed interest rate [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term debt		450,000,000	550,000,000	450,000,000	550,000,000		450,000,000
Fair value of debt instrument		454,000,000	558,000,000	454,000,000	558,000,000		454,000,000
Held by foreign subsidiaries [Member]
Cash Equivalents and Investments [Line Items]
Cash, cash equivalents and investments		$ 2,346,000,000	$ 1,971,000,000	$ 2,346,000,000	$ 1,971,000,000		$ 2,346,000,000

X

- Definition

Further narrative disclosure of claims held for amounts due a company. Examples include trade accounts receivables, notes receivables, loans receivables, etc.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35738203&loc=d3e5074-111524

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28367877&loc=d3e4428-111522

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35738203&loc=d3e5111-111524

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.3)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35738203&loc=d3e5144-111524

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35738203&loc=d3e5130-111524

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35738203&loc=d3e5086-111524

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35738203&loc=d3e5066-111524

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28551-108399

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 860
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=13989330&loc=d3e107425-111719

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 3
-Subparagraph a, c
-Article 5

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_AccountsReceivableAdditionalNarrativeDisclosure
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

An element designated to encapsulate any additional information related to cash and cash equivalents not otherwise addressed by the existing taxonomy. Cash includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6506951

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash Equivalents
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507016

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_AdditionalCashAndCashEquivalentRelatedText
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Amount charged to advertising expense for the period, which are expenses incurred with the objective of increasing revenue for a specified brand, product or product line.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 720
-SubTopic 35
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6420018&loc=d3e36677-107848

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Fair value portion of probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=36462937&loc=d3e19207-110258

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosure
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Amount of investment in debt and equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 320
-SubTopic 10
-Section 25
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (b)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=28360136&loc=d3e22054-111558

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 320
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph (aa)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27724398&loc=d3e27232-111563

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 320
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6871852&loc=d3e26610-111562

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecurities
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Additions made to capitalized computer software costs during the period.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 30
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26713463&loc=d3e16265-109275

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareAdditions
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Unamortized costs incurred for development of computer software, which is to be sold, leased or otherwise marketed, after establishing technological feasibility through to the general release of the software products. Excludes capitalized costs of developing software for internal use.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 985
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6501960&loc=d3e128462-111756

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 17
-Article 5

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_CapitalizedSoftwareDevelopmentCostsForSoftwareSoldToCustomers
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Fair value portion of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6506951

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash Equivalents
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507016

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Cash includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the customer may deposit additional funds at any time and effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid Investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Short-term investments, exclusive of cash equivalents, generally consist of marketable securities intended to be sold within one year (or the normal operating cycle if longer) and may include trading securities, available-for-sale securities, or held-to-maturity securities (if maturing within one year), as applicable.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash Equivalents
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507016

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6506951

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.1)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 1
-Article 5

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsAndShortTermInvestments
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Fair value, before effects of master netting arrangements, of a financial asset or other contract with one or more underlyings, notional amount or payment provision or both, and the contract can be net settled by means outside the contract or delivery of an asset. Includes assets elected not to be offset. Excludes assets not subject to a master netting arrangement.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4B
-Subparagraph (a),(c)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5624163-113959

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34720828&loc=SL20225862-175312

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 20
-Section 55
-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=36459792&loc=SL20226000-175313

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Fair value, before effects of master netting arrangements, of a financial liability or contract with one or more underlyings, notional amount or payment provision or both, and the contract can be net settled by means outside the contract or delivery of an asset. Includes liabilities elected not to be offset. Excludes liabilities not subject to a master netting arrangement.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4B
-Subparagraph (a),(c)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5624163-113959

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34720828&loc=SL20225862-175312

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 20
-Section 55
-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=36459792&loc=SL20226000-175313

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Fair value of obligations measured on a recurring basis.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (a),(b)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=36462937&loc=d3e19207-110258

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisObligations
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Useful life of finite-lived intangible assets, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Description of transaction giving rise to foreign currency transaction gain (loss), including but not limited to, nature of the transaction, the foreign currency involved, the accounting for the transaction.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Foreign Currency Transactions
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6513644

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionsDescription
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Aggregate impact of foreign currency derivatives on earnings for the period. Includes impact of foreign currency cash flow hedge ineffectiveness and the ineffectiveness of fair value hedging derivatives and full change in fair value of the foreign currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4C
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5624171-113959

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4A
-Subparagraph (b)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5618551-113959

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 25
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6886632&loc=d3e76258-113986

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4D
-Subparagraph (a)(2)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5624177-113959

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_GainLossOnForeignCurrencyDerivativesRecordedInEarningsNet
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Fair value of financial and nonfinancial obligations.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=36462937&loc=d3e19207-110258

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_LiabilitiesFairValueDisclosure
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

The fair value amount of long-term debt whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Carrying amount of long-term debt, net of unamortized discount or premium, excluding amounts to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer (current maturities). Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 22
-Article 5

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

The total amount of investments that are intended to be held for an extended period of time (longer than one operating cycle).

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.12)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_MovementInStandardProductWarrantyAccrualRollForward
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Number of reporting units tested for impairment of goodwill. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Reporting Unit
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6523643

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_NumberOfReportingUnits
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Fair value portion of other assets.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_OtherAssetsFairValueDisclosure
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.13)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 360
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6391035&loc=d3e2868-110229

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph a
-Article 5

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 8
-Article 7

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Useful life of long lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Examples include, but not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

The amount of the write-off for research and development assets that were acquired in a transaction other than a business combination.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 30
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (c)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26713463&loc=d3e16265-109275

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentAssetAcquiredOtherThanThroughBusinessCombinationWrittenOff
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Amount as of the balance sheet date of the aggregate standard product warranty liability. Does not include the balance for the extended product warranty liability.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 460
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph (c)(1),(c)(5)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6398077&loc=d3e12565-110249

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_StandardProductWarrantyAccrual
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Represents the aggregate decrease in the liability for payments made (in cash or in kind) to satisfy claims under the terms of the standard product warranty. Does not include any Increase or Decrease in the liability for payments related to extended product warranties.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 460
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph ((c)(2))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6398077&loc=d3e12565-110249

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_StandardProductWarrantyAccrualPayments
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Represents the aggregate increase in the liability for accruals related to standard product warranties issued during the reporting period. Does not include any increase in the liability for accruals related to extended product warranties.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 460
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph ((c)(3))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6398077&loc=d3e12565-110249

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_StandardProductWarrantyAccrualWarrantiesIssued
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Amount of stock repurchase plan authorized.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Period which shares may be purchased under a stock repurchase plan authorized by an entity's Board of Directors, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramPeriodInForce1
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Amount remaining of a stock repurchase plan authorized.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount1
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Number of shares that have been repurchased during the period and are being held in treasury.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21463-112644

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 29, 30
-Article 5

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Article 3

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:sharesItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Equity impact of the cost of common and preferred stock that were repurchased during the period. Recorded using the cost method.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21463-112644

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6405813&loc=d3e23239-112655

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.3-04)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27012166&loc=d3e187085-122770

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Article 3

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_AdditionsToAllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsAndSalesReturns
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsAndSalesReturnsRollForwardAbstract
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables that are expected to be uncollectible and sales returns that are expected to occur.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_AllowancesForDoubtfulAccountsAndSalesReturns
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAbstract
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_CashEquivalentsAndInvestmentsLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_DeductionsFromAllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsAndSalesReturns
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Aggregate notional amount specified by the derivative(s). Expressed as an absolute value.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_DerivativeNotionalAmount1
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_IntangibleAssetsLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_MaximumPercentageOfNetSalesToIndividualCustomer
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	num:percentItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_PercentOfNetSalesDerivedFromOperationsOutsideUnitedStates
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	num:percentItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_PercentOfNetSalesToPharmaceuticalIndustry
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	num:percentItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

The amount of additional payments that could be required for the achievement of certain milestones under a licensing agreement.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_PotentialPaymentsUnderLicensingArrangements
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant

X

- Definition

Aggregate impact of foreign currency derivatives closed during the period on earnings for the period.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_RealizedGainLossOnForeignCurrencyDerivativesRecordedInEarningsNet
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Aggregate impact of foreign currency derivatives that remain open at the end of the period on earnings for the period.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	wat_UnrealizedGainLossOnForeignCurrencyDerivativesRecordedInEarningsNet
Namespace Prefix:	wat_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis=us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis=us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis=us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_StockRepurchaseProgramAxis=wat_ProgramsAuthorizedByBoardOfDirectorsMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_StockRepurchaseProgramAxis=wat_RelatedToVestingOfRestrictedStockUnitsMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_StockRepurchaseProgramAxis=wat_May2014ProgramMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_StockRepurchaseProgramAxis=wat_May2012ProgramMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis=us-gaap_BuildingMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_RangeAxis=us-gaap_MinimumMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_RangeAxis=us-gaap_MaximumMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis=us-gaap_BuildingImprovementsMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis=us-gaap_OtherMachineryAndEquipmentMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis=us-gaap_SoftwareAndSoftwareDevelopmentCostsMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis=us-gaap_USTreasurySecuritiesMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis=us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis=us-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis=us-gaap_BankTimeDepositsMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_MajorTypesOfDebtAndEquitySecuritiesAxis=us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_IntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=wat_PurchasedIntangiblesMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_IntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_SoftwareDevelopmentMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_IntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=wat_PatentsAndOtherIntangiblesMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_DebtInterestRateTypeAxis=wat_FixedInterestRateMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type:

X

- Details

Name:	wat_CashCashEquivalentsAndInvestmentsGeographyAxis=wat_HeldByForeignSubsidiariesMember
Namespace Prefix:
Data Type:	na
Balance Type:
Period Type: