Waters (WAT) 10-Q 5 Aug 16 2016 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 29, 2016
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	WATERS CORP /DE/
Entity Trading Symbol	WAT
Entity Central Index Key	1,000,697
Document Type	10-Q
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Document Period End Date	Jul. 2, 2016
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float	$ 11,522,067,374
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		80,573,959

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 02, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 463,382	$ 487,665
Investments	2,136,404	1,911,598
Accounts receivable, less allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns of $8,187 and $7,496 at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively	445,953	468,315
Inventories	286,447	263,415
Other current assets	73,750	82,540
Total current assets	3,405,936	3,213,533
Property, plant and equipment, net	330,235	333,355
Intangible assets, net	217,393	218,022
Goodwill	352,987	356,864
Other assets	141,522	146,903
Total assets	4,448,073	4,268,677
Current liabilities:
Notes payable and debt	125,260	175,309
Accounts payable	66,115	70,573
Accrued employee compensation	35,585	54,653
Deferred revenue and customer advances	190,904	141,505
Accrued income taxes	7,296	14,894
Accrued warranty	12,927	13,349
Other current liabilities	84,517	93,793
Total current liabilities	522,604	564,076
Long-term liabilities:
Long-term debt	1,631,698	1,493,027
Long-term portion of retirement benefits	70,761	77,063
Long-term income tax liabilities	12,298	14,884
Other long-term liabilities	61,368	60,776
Total long-term liabilities	1,776,125	1,645,750
Total liabilities	2,298,729	2,209,826
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 5, 6 and 10)
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, 5,000 shares authorized, none issued at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015	0	0
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share, 400,000 shares authorized, 158,098 and 157,677 shares issued, 80,537 and 81,472 shares outstanding at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively	1,581	1,577
Additional paid-in capital	1,541,157	1,490,342
Retained earnings	5,085,835	4,863,566
Treasury stock, at cost, 77,561 and 76,205 shares at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively	(4,322,300)	(4,149,908)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(156,929)	(146,726)
Total stockholders' equity	2,149,344	2,058,851
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 4,448,073	$ 4,268,677

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 02, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns	$ 8,187	$ 7,496
Preferred stock, par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	400,000,000	400,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	158,098,000	157,677,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	80,537,000	81,472,000
Treasury stock, shares	77,561,000	76,205,000

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Income Statement [Abstract]
Product sales	$ 359,687	$ 332,036	$ 667,544	$ 634,909
Service sales	176,873	162,704	344,262	320,235
Total net sales	536,560	494,740	1,011,806	955,144
Cost of product sales	144,814	138,201	274,072	260,154
Cost of service sales	75,565	70,506	147,458	137,799
Total cost of sales	220,379	208,707	421,530	397,953
Gross profit	316,181	286,033	590,276	557,191
Selling and administrative expenses	129,581	122,660	258,932	242,411
Research and development expenses	32,578	30,555	62,016	59,506
Purchased intangibles amortization	2,411	2,500	5,055	4,974
Operating income	151,611	130,318	264,273	250,300
Interest expense	(10,983)	(9,046)	(21,102)	(18,021)
Interest income	4,827	2,500	8,914	4,840
Income from operations before income taxes	145,455	123,772	252,085	237,119
Provision for income taxes	17,238	18,115	29,816	35,401
Net income	$ 128,217	$ 105,657	$ 222,269	$ 201,718
Net income per basic common share	$ 1.59	$ 1.28	$ 2.74	$ 2.44
Weighted-average number of basic common shares	80,804	82,564	81,043	82,798
Net income per diluted common share	$ 1.57	$ 1.27	$ 2.72	$ 2.41
Weighted-average number of diluted common shares and equivalents	81,455	83,332	81,663	83,551

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 128,217	$ 105,657	$ 222,269	$ 201,718
Foreign currency translation	(31,485)	21,957	(15,434)	(42,391)
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments before income taxes	1,881	(2,184)	5,170	583
Income tax (expense) benefit	(76)	87	(169)	(29)
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax	1,805	(2,097)	5,001	554
Retirement liability adjustment before reclassifications	501	(555)	(499)	1,581
Retirement liability amounts reclassified to selling and administrative expenses	810	921	1,620	1,842
Retirement liability adjustment before income taxes	1,311	366	1,121	3,423
Income tax expense from retirement liability adjustment	(613)	(123)	(891)	(1,154)
Retirement liability adjustment, net of tax	698	243	230	2,269
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(28,982)	20,103	(10,203)	(39,568)
Comprehensive income	$ 99,235	$ 125,760	$ 212,066	$ 162,150

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 222,269	$ 201,718
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Stock-based compensation expense	24,237	16,610
Deferred income taxes	637	542
Depreciation	26,055	22,766
Amortization of intangibles	22,022	22,372
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Decrease in accounts receivable	32,318	15,842
Increase in inventories	(25,003)	(27,678)
Decrease (increase) in other current assets	2,812	(9,596)
Increase in other assets	(3,517)	(9,397)
Decrease in accounts payable and other current liabilities	(41,100)	(22,287)
Increase in deferred revenue and customer advances	46,801	43,352
Increase in other liabilities	9,374	13,305
Net cash provided by operating activities	316,905	267,549
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant, equipment and software capitalization	(49,696)	(45,293)
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired		(9,408)
Purchases of investments	(1,205,035)	(1,328,292)
Maturities and sales of investments	987,060	1,118,485
Net cash used in investing activities	(267,671)	(264,508)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from debt issuances	400,177	195,073
Payments on debt	(310,239)	(100,019)
Payments of debt issuance costs	(1,705)	(2,309)
Proceeds from stock plans	23,272	24,777
Purchases of treasury shares	(172,392)	(170,958)
Excess tax benefit related to stock option plans	3,517	5,689
Payments for derivative contracts	(7,531)	(805)
Net cash used in financing activities	(64,901)	(48,552)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(8,616)	(10,791)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(24,283)	(56,302)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	487,665	422,177
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 463,382	$ 365,875

Basis of Presentation and Summa

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	1 Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Waters Corporation (“Waters ® ” or the “Company”) is an analytical instrument manufacturer that primarily designs, manufactures, sells and services high performance liquid chromatography (“HPLC”), ultra performance liquid chromatography (“UPLC ® ” and together with HPLC, referred to as “LC”) and mass spectrometry (“MS”) technology systems and support products, including chromatography columns, other consumable products and comprehensive post-warranty service plans. These systems are complementary products that are frequently employed together (“LC-MS”) and sold as integrated instrument systems using a common software platform . LC is a standard technique and is utilized in a broad range of industries to detect, identify, monitor and measure the chemical, physical and biological composition of materials, and to purify a full range of compounds. MS instruments are used in drug discovery and development, including clinical trial testing, the analysis of proteins in disease process es (known as “proteomics”), nutritional safety analysis and environmental testing. LC -MS instruments combine a liquid phase sample introduction and separation system with mass spectrometric compound identification and quantification. In addition , the Company designs, manufactures, sells and services thermal analysis, rheometry and calorimetry instruments through its TA ® product line. These instruments are used in predicting the suitability and stability of fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, water, polymers , metals and viscous liquids for various industrial, consumer goods and healthcare products, as well as for pharmaceutical research. The Company is also a developer and supplier of software-based products that interface with the Company's instruments , as well as other suppliers' instruments, and are typically purchased by customers as part of the instrument system. The Company's interim fiscal quarter typically ends on the thirteenth Saturday of each quarter. Since the Company's fiscal year end is December 31, the first and fourth fiscal quarters may have more or less than thirteen complete weeks. The Company's second fiscal quarters for 2016 and 2015 ended on July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 , respectively. The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and note disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the United States of America. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, which are wholly owned. All material inter-company balances and tra nsactions have been eliminated. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent liabilities at the dates of the financial statements. Actual amounts may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. It is management's opinion that the accompanying interim consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (which are normal and recurring) that are necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods. The interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statem ents included in the Company's A nnual R eport on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 , as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on February 26, 2016. Translation of Foreign Currencies For most of the Company's foreign operations, assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates prevailing on the balance sheet date, while revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the period. The functional currency of each of the Company's foreign operating subsidiaries is the local currency of that particular country, except for the Company's subsidiaries in Hong Kong, Singapore and the Cayman Islands, where the underlying transactional cash flows are denominated in currencies other than the respective local currency of domicile. The functional currency of the Hong Kong, Singapore and Cayman Islands subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar, based on the respective entity's cash flows. Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments Cash equivalents represent highly liquid investments, with original maturities of 90 days or less, while investments with longer maturities are classified as investments. The Company maintains cash balances in various operating accounts in excess of federally insured limits, and in foreign subsidiary accounts in currencies other than the U.S. dollar . As of July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , $2,559 million out of $2,600 million and $2,346 million out of $2,399 million, respectively, of the Company's total cash, cash equivalents and investments were held by foreign subsidiaries and may be subject to material tax effects on distribution to U.S. legal entities . In addition, $252 million out of $2,600 million and $248 million out of $2,399 million of cash, cash equivalents and investments were held in currencies other than the U.S. dollar at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively . Fair Value Measurements In accordance with the accounting standards for fair value measurements and disclosures, certain of the Company's assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . Fair values determined by Level 1 inputs utilize observable data , such as quoted prices in active markets. Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs utilize data points other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly. Fair values determined by Level 3 inputs utilize unobservable data points for which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions. The following table represents the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at July 2, 2016 (in thousands) : Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets Other Significant for Identical Observable Unobservable Total at Assets Inputs Inputs July 2, 2016 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: U.S. Treasury securities $ 585,448 $ - $ 585,448 $ - Foreign government securities 18,024 - 18,024 - Corporate debt securities 1,454,719 - 1,454,719 - Time deposits 166,152 - 166,152 - Equity securities 147 - 147 - Other cash equivalents 11,000 - 11,000 - Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets 30,031 - 30,031 - Foreign currency exchange contracts 174 - 174 - Total $ 2,265,695 $ - $ 2,265,695 $ - Liabilities: Contingent consideration $ 4,608 $ - $ - $ 4,608 Foreign currency exchange contracts 952 - 952 - Total $ 5,560 $ - $ 952 $ 4,608 The following table represents the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recu rring basis at December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets Other Significant Total at for Identical Observable Unobservable December 31, Assets Inputs Inputs 2015 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: U.S. Treasury securities $ 627,156 $ - $ 627,156 $ - Foreign government securities 15,199 - 15,199 - Corporate debt securities 1,324,318 - 1,324,318 - Time deposits 74,947 - 74,947 - Equity securities 147 - 147 - Other cash equivalents 27,000 - 27,000 - Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets 35,823 - 35,823 - Foreign currency exchange contracts 616 - 616 - Total $ 2,105,206 $ - $ 2,105,206 $ - Liabilities: Contingent consideration $ 4,215 $ - $ - $ 4,215 Foreign currency exchange contracts 402 - 402 - Total $ 4,617 $ - $ 402 $ 4,215 The fair values of the Company's cash equivalents, investments , 401(k) restoration plan assets and foreign currency exchange contracts are determined through market and observable sources and have been classified as Level 2 . These assets and liabilities have been initially valued at the transaction price and subsequently valued , typically utilizing third-party pricing services. The pricing services use many inputs to determine value, including reportable trades, benchmark yields, credit spreads, broker/dealer quotes, current spot rates and other industry and economic events. The Company validates the prices provided by third-party pricing services by reviewing their pricing methods and obtaining market values from other pricing sources. After completing these validation procedures, the Company did not adjust or override any fair value measurements provided by third-party pricing services as of July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . Fair Value of Contingent Consideration The fair value of the Company's liability for contingent consideration relates to the July 2014 acquisition of Medimass Research, Development and Service Kft . and is determined using a probability-weighted discounted cash flow model, which uses significant unobservable inputs, and has been classified as Level 3. Subsequent changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration liability are recorded in the results of operations. The fair value of the contingent consideration liability associated with future earnout payments is based on several factors, including the estimated futu re results and a discount rate that reflects both the likelihood of achieving the estimated future results and the Company's creditworthiness. A change in any of these unobservable inputs can significantly change the fair value of the contingent consideration. Although there is no contractual limit, the fair value of future contingent consideration payments was estimated to be $5 million and $4 million at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively, based on the Company's best estimate, as the earnout is based on future sales of certain products through 2034. There have been no changes in significant assumptions since December 31, 2015 and the change in fair value since then is primarily due to change in time value of money. Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments The Company's cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and variable interest rate debt are recorded at cost , which approximates fair value. The carrying value of the Company's fixed interest rate debt was $610 million and $450 million at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively . The fair value of the Company's fixed interest rate debt was estimated using discounted cash flow models, based on estimated current rates offered for similar debt under current market conditions for the Company. The fair value of the Company ' s fixed interest rate debt was estimated to be $623 million and $454 million at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively , using Level 2 inputs. Derivative Transactions The Company is a global company that operates in over 35 countries and, as a result, the Company ' s net sales, cost of sales, operating expenses and balance sheet amounts are significantly impacted by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company is exposed to currency price risk on foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations when it translates its non-U.S. dollar foreign subsidiaries ' financial statements into U.S. dollars, and when any of the Company ' s subsidiaries purchase or sell products or services in a currency other than its own currency. The Company ' s principal strategy in managing exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates is to naturally hedge the foreign-currency-denominated liabilities on the Company ' s balance sheet against corresponding assets of the same currency, such that any changes in liabilities due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates are typically offset by corresponding changes in assets. The Company does not specifically enter into any derivatives that hedge foreign-currency-denominated assets, liabilities or commitments on its balance sheet, other than a portion of certain third-party accounts receivable and accounts payable, and the Company ' s net worldwide intercompany receivables and payables, which are eliminated in consolidation. The Company periodically aggregates its net worldwide balances by currency and then enters into foreign currency exchange contracts that mature within 90 days to hedge a portion of the remaining balance to minimize some of the Company ' s currency price risk exposure. The foreign currency exchange contracts are not designated for hedge accounting treatment. Principal hedged currenc ies include the Euro, Japanese y en, Britis h pound and Brazilian real . At July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , the Company held foreign exchange contracts with notional amounts totaling $128 million and $116 million, respectively. T he Company's foreign currency exchange contracts included in the consolid ated balance sheets are classified as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Other current assets $ 174 $ 616 Other current liabilities $ 952 $ 402 The following is a summary of the activity in the statements of operations related to the foreign exchange contracts (in thousands): Three Months Ended Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Realized (losses) gains on closed contracts $ (5,637) $ 2,542 $ (7,531) $ (805) Unrealized (losses) gains on open contracts (963) (280) (992) 62 Cumulative net pre-tax (losses) gains $ (6,600) $ 2,262 $ (8,523) $ (743) Stockholders' Equity In Ma y 20 1 4 , the Company's Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $ 75 0 million of its out standing common stock over a three -year period . The Company repurchased 1.3 million shares of the Company's outstanding common stock during both the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 at a cost of $ 166 million and $ 165 million , respectively, under the May 201 4 authorization and other previously announced programs . The Company has a total of $275 million authorized for future repurchases under the May 2014 p lan . In addition, the Company repurchased $6 million of common stock related to the vesting of restricted stock units during both the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 . The Company believes that it has the financial flexibility to fund these share repurchases given current cash levels and debt borrowing capacity, as well as to invest in research, technology and business acquisitions to further grow the Company's sales and profits. Product Warranty Costs The Company accrues estimated product warranty costs at the time of sale, which are included in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of operations. While the Company engages in extensive product quality programs and processes, including actively monitoring and evaluating the quality of its component supplie r s, the Company's warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, material usage and service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure. The amount of the accrued warranty liability is based on historical inform ation, such as past experience, product failure rates, number of units repaired and estimated costs of material and labor. The liability is reviewed for re asonableness at least quarterly. The following is a summary of the activity of the Company's accrued warranty liability for the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 (in thousands): Balance at Balance at Beginning Accruals for Settlements End of of Period Warranties Made Period Accrued warranty liability: July 2, 2016 $ 13,349 $ 4,297 $ (4,719) $ 12,927 July 4, 2015 $ 13,266 $ 3,744 $ (3,971) $ 13,039

Marketable Securities

Marketable Securities	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Marketable Securities	2 Marketable Securities The Company's marketable securities within cash equivalents and investments included in the consolidated balance sheets are detailed as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gain Loss Value U.S. Treasury securities $ 584,156 $ 1,293 $ (1) $ 585,448 Foreign government securities 17,999 25 - 18,024 Corporate debt securities 1,453,165 1,934 (380) 1,454,719 Time deposits 166,152 - - 166,152 Equity securities 77 70 - 147 Total $ 2,221,549 $ 3,322 $ (381) $ 2,224,490 Amounts included in: Cash equivalents $ 88,085 $ 1 $ - $ 88,086 Investments 2,133,464 3,321 (381) 2,136,404 Total $ 2,221,549 $ 3,322 $ (381) $ 2,224,490 December 31, 2015 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gain Loss Value U.S. Treasury securities $ 628,358 $ 16 $ (1,218) $ 627,156 Foreign government securities 15,216 - (17) 15,199 Corporate debt securities 1,325,398 159 (1,239) 1,324,318 Time deposits 74,947 - - 74,947 Equity securities 77 70 - 147 Total $ 2,043,996 $ 245 $ (2,474) $ 2,041,767 Amounts included in: Cash equivalents $ 130,169 $ - $ - $ 130,169 Investments 1,913,827 245 (2,474) 1,911,598 Total $ 2,043,996 $ 245 $ (2,474) $ 2,041,767 The estimated fair value of marketable debt securities by maturity date is as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Due in one year or less $ 1,251,708 $ 1,137,825 Due after one year through three years 806,483 828,848 Total $ 2,058,191 $ 1,966,673

Inventories

Inventories	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Inventory Items, Net Of Reserves Alternative [Abstract]
Inventories Disclosure	3 Inventories Inventories are classi fied as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Raw materials $ 94,171 $ 88,625 Work in progress 18,240 20,901 Finished goods 174,036 153,889 Total inventories $ 286,447 $ 263,415

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Goodwill and Other Intangibles [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangibles	4 Goodwill and Other Intangibles The carrying amount of goodwill was $ 353 million and $ 357 million at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. During the six months ended July 2, 2016 , the effect of foreign currency translation decrease d goodwill by $ 4 million . T he Company's intangible assets included in the consolidated balance sheets are detailed as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Weighted- Weighted- Gross Average Gross Average Carrying Accumulated Amortization Carrying Accumulated Amortization Amount Amortization Period Amount Amortization Period Capitalized software $ 359,378 $ 221,241 6 years $ 335,949 $ 204,267 7 years Purchased intangibles 163,468 124,872 11 years 163,500 119,505 11 years Trademarks and IPR&D 13,870 - 14,364 - Licenses 4,948 3,927 6 years 5,396 4,046 6 years Patents and other intangibles 60,209 34,440 8 years 58,519 31,888 8 years Total $ 601,873 $ 384,480 7 years $ 577,728 $ 359,706 8 years During the six months ended July 2, 2016 , the effect of foreign currency translation increase d the gross carrying value of intangible assets and accumulated amortization for intangible assets by $4 million and $2 million, respectively. A mortization expe nse fo r intangible assets was $11 million f or both the three months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 . A mortization expe nse for intangible assets was $22 million f or both the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 . A mortization expense for intangible assets is estimated to be approximately $ 44 million per year for each of the next five year s.

Debt

Debt	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Debt [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure	5 Debt On May 12, 2016 , the Company issued and sold the following senior unsecured notes: Senior Face Value Unsecured Notes Term Interest Rate (in millions) Maturity Date Series I 7 years 3.13% $ 50 May 2023 Series J 8 years Floating Rate* $ 40 May 2024 Series K 10 years 3.44% $ 160 May 2026 *Series J senior unsecured notes bear interest at 3 month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.45%. Of the $250 million of proceeds received from the issuance of the new senior unsecured notes , $225 million were used to repay outstanding portions of the revolving faci lities. Interest on the Series I and K senior unsecured notes is payable semi-annually each year. Interest on Series J senior unsecured notes is payable quarterly. The Company may prepay all or some of the senior unsecured notes at any time in an amount not less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount outstanding, plus the applicable make-whole amount or prepayment premium for Series J senior unsecured notes . Other provisions for these senior unsecured notes are similar to the existing senior uns ecured notes, as described below . In Ju ne 201 3 , the Company entered into a credit agreement that provides for a $ 1. 1 b illion revolving facility and a $ 3 00 million term loan facility. In April 2015, Waters entered into an amendment to th is a greement (the “Amended Credit Agreement”) . The A mended C redit A greement provides for an increase of the revolving commitments from $1.1 billion to $1.3 billion and extends the maturity of the original credit agreement from June 25, 2018 until April 23, 2020. The Company plans to use future proceeds from the revolving facility for general corporate purposes. The interest rates applicable to the Amended Credit Agreement are, at the Company's option, equal to either th e alternate base rate calculated daily (which is a rate per annum equal to the greatest of (a ) the prime rate in effect on such day, (b ) the federal funds effective rate in effect on such day plus 1/2 % per annum , or ( c ) the adjusted LIBO rate on such day (or if such day is not a business day, the immediately preceding business day) for a deposit in U.S. dollars with a maturity of one month plus 1% per annum) or the applicable 1, 2, 3 or 6 month adjusted LIBO rate, in each case, plus an interest rate margin based upon the Company's leverage ratio, which can range between 0 to 12.5 basis points for alternate base rate loans and between 80 b asis points and 1 1 7 .5 basis points for adjusted LIBO rate loans . The facility fee on the Amended C redit Agreement ranges between 7 .5 basis points and 2 0 basis points. The Amended Credit Agreement requires that the Company comply with an interest coverage ratio test of not less than 3.50:1 as of the end of any fiscal quarter for any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters and a leverage ratio test of not more than 3.5 0 :1 as of the end of any fiscal quarter . In addition, the Amended Credit Agreement includes negative covenants , affirmative covenants, representations and warranties and events of default that are customary for investment grade credit facilities . A t July 2, 2016 , $125 million of the outstanding portion of the revolving facility was classified as short-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet due to the fact that the Company expects to repay this portion of the borrowing under the revolving line of credit within the next twelve months . The remaining $635 million of the outstanding portion of the revolving facility was classified as long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet, as this portion is not expected to be repaid within the next twelve months. As of July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , the Company had a total of $700 million and $500 million of outstanding senior unsecured notes , respectively . Interest on the fixed rate senior unsecured notes is payable semi-annually each year. Interest on the floating rate senior unsecured notes is payable quarterly. The Company may prepay all or some of the senior unsecured notes at any time in an amount not less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount outstanding, plus the applicable make-whole amount or prepayment premium for Series H and J senior unsecured notes . In the event of a change in control of the Company (as defined in the note purchase agreement), the Company may be required to prepay the senior unsecured notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest. These senior unsecured notes require that the Company comply with an interest coverage ratio test of not less than 3.50:1 for any period of four consecuti ve fiscal quarters and a leverage ratio test of not more than 3.50:1 as of the end of any fiscal quarter . In addition, these senior unsecured notes include customary negative covenants , affirmative covenants, representations and warranties and events of default. T he Company had the following outstanding debt a t July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands) : July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Foreign subsidiary lines of credit $ 260 $ 322 Senior unsecured notes - Series C - 2.50%, due March 2016 - 50,000 Credit agreements 125,000 125,000 Unamortized debt issuance costs - (13) Total notes payable and debt 125,260 175,309 Senior unsecured notes - Series B - 5.00%, due February 2020 100,000 100,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series D - 3.22%, due March 2018 100,000 100,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series E - 3.97%, due March 2021 50,000 50,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series F - 3.40%, due June 2021 100,000 100,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series G - 3.92%, due June 2024 50,000 50,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series H - floating rate*, due June 2024 50,000 50,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series I - 3.13%, due May 2023 50,000 - Senior unsecured notes - Series J - floating rate**, due May 2024 40,000 - Senior unsecured notes - Series K - 3.44%, due May 2026 160,000 - Credit agreements 935,000 1,045,000 Unamortized debt issuance costs (3,302) (1,973) Total long-term debt 1,631,698 1,493,027 Total debt $ 1,756,958 $ 1,668,336 * Series H senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.25%. ** Series J senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.45%. As of July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , the Company had a total amount available to borrow under the existing credit agreements of $ 538 million and $ 428 million, respectively, after outstanding letters of credit. The weighted-average interest rates applicable to the senior unsecured notes and c redit a greement borrowings collectively were 2.40% and 2.11% at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. As of July 2, 2016 , the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants. The Company and its foreign subsidiaries also had available short-term lines of credit totaling $ 101 million and $ 97 million at July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively, for the purpose of short-term borrowing and issuance of commercial guarantees. At July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , the weighted-average interest rate s applicable to these short-term borrowings were 1.48% and 1.24% , respectively.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	6 Income Taxes The four principal jurisdictions in which the Company manufactures are the U.S., Ireland, the United Kingdom and Singapore, where the marginal effective tax rates were approximately 37.5%, 12.5%, 20% and 0%, respectively, as of July 2, 2016 . The Company has a contractual tax rate in Singapore of 0% through March 2021, based upon the achievement of certain contractual milestones, which the Company expects to continue to meet. The current statutory tax rate in Singapore is 17%. For the first half of 2016, the effect of applying the contractual tax rate in Singapore, as compared with applying the statutory tax rate, increased net income by $ 1 0 million and increased net income per diluted share by $0. 1 2 . The Company's effective tax rate was 11.9% and 14.6% for the three months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 , respectively . The Company's effective tax rate was 11.8% and 14.9% for the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 , respectively . The decrease in the effective tax rates for the three and six months ended July 2, 2016 as compared to the three and six months ended July 4, 2015 can be attributed to the rele ase of a valuation allowance on certain net operating loss carryforward s and to differences in the proportionate amounts of pre-tax income recognized in jurisdictions with different effective tax rates . The effective tax rate for the six months ended July 2, 2016 was also impacted by a tax benefit recorded in the first quarter of 2016 associated with modifications to certain stock compensation awards . In addition, the effective tax rate for the three and six months ended July 4, 2015 did not include the U.S. research and development tax credit as it was not enacted by the government or recognized by the Company until the fourth quarter of 2015. The Company accounts for its uncertain tax return reporting positions in accordan ce with the accounting standards for income taxes, which require financial statement reporting of the expected future tax consequences of uncertain tax reporting positions on the presumption that all concerned tax authoriti es possess full knowledge of those tax reporting positions, as well as all of the pertinent facts and circumstances, but prohibit any discounting of u nrecognized tax benefits associated with those reporting positions for the time value of money. The following is a summary of the activity of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits for the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 (in thousands): July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Balance at the beginning of the period $ 14,450 $ 19,596 Net changes in uncertain tax benefits (2,563) 57 Balance at the end of the period $ 11,887 $ 19,653 With limited exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to tax audit examinations in significant jurisdictions for the years ended on or before December 31, 20 1 2 . However, carryforward tax attributes that were generated in years beginning on or before January 1, 201 3 may still be adjusted upon examination by tax authorities if the attributes are utilized. The Company continuously monitors the lapsing of statutes of limitations on potential tax assessments for related changes in the measurement of unrecognized tax benefits, related net interest and penalties, and deferred tax assets and liabilities. As of July 2, 2016 , the Company expects to record additional reductions in the measurement of its unrecognized tax benefits and related net interest and penalties of approximately $ 5 million within the next twelve months due to potential tax audit settlements and the lapsing of statutes of limitations on potential tax assessments. The Company does not expect to record any other material reductions in the measurement of its unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	7 Stock-Based Compensation The Company maintains various shareholder-approved, stock-based compensation plans which allow for the issuance of incentive or non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock or other types of awards (e.g. restricted stock units). The Company accounts for stock-based compensation costs in accordance with the accounting standard s for stock-based compensation, which require that all share-based payments to employees be recognized in the statements of operations based on their grant date fair values. The Company recognizes the expense using the straight-line attribution method. The stock-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations is based on awards that ultimately are expected to vest; therefore, the amount of expense has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. The stock-based compensation accounting standard s require forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Forfeitures were estimated based on historical experience. If actual results differ significantly from these estimates, stock-based compensation expense and the Company's results of operations could be materially impacted. In addition, if the Company employs different assum ptions in the application of the s e standard s , the compensation expense that the Company records in the future periods may differ significantly from what the Company has recorded in the current period. The consolidated statements of operations for the three and six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 include the following stock-based compensation expense related to stock option awards, restricted stock, restricted stock unit awards and the employee stock purch ase plan (in thousands): Three Months Ended Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Cost of sales $ 656 $ 648 $ 1,327 $ 1,322 Selling and administrative expenses 6,613 6,426 20,582 13,060 Research and development expenses 1,127 1,081 2,328 2,228 Total stock-based compensation $ 8,396 $ 8,155 $ 24,237 $ 16,610 During the six months ended July 2, 2016 , the Company recognized $7 million of stock compensation expense related to the modification of certain stock awards upon the retirement of senior executives. Stock Options In determining the fair value of the stock options, the Company makes a variety of assumptions and estimates, including volatility measures, expected yields and expected stock option lives. The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black- Scholes option pricing model. The Company uses implied volatility on its publicly - traded options as the basis for its estimate of expected volatility. The Company believes that implied volatility is the most appropriate indicator of expected volatility because it is generally reflective of historical volatility and expectations of how future volatility will differ from historical volatility. The expected life assumption for grants is based on historical experience for the population of non-qualified stock option exercises . The risk-free interest rate is the yield currently available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with a remaining term approximating the expected term used as the input to the Black- Scholes model. The relevant data used to determine the value of the stock options granted during the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 are as follows: Six Months Ended Options Issued and Significant Assumptions Used to Estimate Option Fair Values July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Options issued (in thousands) 86 37 Risk-free interest rate 1.5% 1.7% Expected life in years 5 4 Expected volatility 0.286 0.262 Expected dividends - - Six Months Ended Weighted-Average Exercise Price and Fair Value of Options on the Date of Grant July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Exercise price $ 122.65 $ 116.65 Fair value $ 34.63 $ 28.17 T he following table summarizes stock option activity for the plans for the six months ended July 2, 2016 (in thousands, except per share data): Number of Shares Price per Share Weighted-Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2015 3,154 $ 38.09 to $ 134.37 $ 96.73 Granted 86 $ 117.68 to $ 130.35 $ 122.65 Exercised (252) $ 41.20 to $ 113.36 $ 79.21 Canceled (50) $ 79.15 to $ 128.93 $ 109.16 Outstanding at July 2, 2016 2,938 $ 38.09 to $ 134.37 $ 98.78 Restricted Stock During the six months ended July 2, 2016 , the Company granted eight thousand shares of restricted stock. The fair value of these awards on the grant date was $ 130.35 per share . Restricted Stock Units The following table summarizes the unvested restricted stock unit award activity for the six months ended July 2, 2016 (in thousands, except for per share data ): Shares Weighted-Average Price Unvested at December 31, 2015 497 $ 104.16 Granted 136 $ 117.75 Vested (135) $ 97.57 Forfeited (9) $ 112.25 Unvested at July 2, 2016 489 $ 109.61 Restricted stock units are generally granted annually in February and vest in equal annual insta llments over a five-year period.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	8 Earnings Per Share Basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) calculations are detailed as follows (in th ousands, except per share data): Three Months Ended July 2, 2016 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 128,217 80,804 $ 1.59 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 651 (0.02) Net income per diluted common share $ 128,217 81,455 $ 1.57 Three Months Ended July 4, 2015 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 105,657 82,564 $ 1.28 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 768 (0.01) Net income per diluted common share $ 105,657 83,332 $ 1.27 Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 222,269 81,043 $ 2.74 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 620 (0.02) Net income per diluted common share $ 222,269 81,663 $ 2.72 Six Months Ended July 4, 2015 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 201,718 82,798 $ 2.44 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 753 (0.03) Net income per diluted common share $ 201,718 83,551 $ 2.41 For t he three and six months ended July 2, 2016 , the Company had 0.8 million and 1.2 million stock options that were antidilutive , respectively, due to having higher exercise prices than the Company's average stock price during the period. For t he three and six months ended July 4, 2015 , the Company had 0.5 million and 0.6 million stock options that were antidilutive , respectively . These securities were not included in the computation of diluted EPS. The effect of dilutive securities was calculated using the treasury stock method.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	9 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income The components of accumulated other comprehensive income are detailed as follows (in thousands): Currency Translation Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Benefit Plans Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (103,570) $ (40,946) $ (2,210) $ (146,726) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (15,434) 230 5,001 (10,203) Balance at July 2, 2016 $ (119,004) $ (40,716) $ 2,791 $ (156,929)

Retirement Plans

Retirement Plans	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Retirement Plans [Abstract]
Retirement Plans	10 Retirement Plans The Company sponsors various retirement plans. The summary of the components of net periodic pension costs for the plans for the three and six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 is as follows (in thousands): Three Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. Pension Healthcare Pension Pension Healthcare Pension Plans Plan Plans Plans Plan Plans Service cost $ 94 $ 116 $ 1,250 $ - $ 262 $ 1,337 Interest cost 1,745 135 429 1,513 118 402 Expected return on plan assets (2,417) (130) (406) (2,318) (122) (410) Net amortization: Prior service (credit) cost - - (49) - - 14 Net actuarial loss 667 - 192 679 - 273 Net periodic pension cost (benefit) $ 89 $ 121 $ 1,416 $ (126) $ 258 $ 1,616 Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. Pension Healthcare Pension Pension Healthcare Pension Plans Plan Plans Plans Plan Plans Service cost $ 188 $ 232 $ 2,468 $ - $ 524 $ 2,674 Interest cost 3,490 270 850 3,026 236 804 Expected return on plan assets (4,834) (260) (805) (4,636) (244) (820) Net amortization: Prior service (credit) cost - - (94) - - 28 Net actuarial loss 1,334 - 380 1,358 - 546 Net periodic pension cost (benefit) $ 178 $ 242 $ 2,799 $ (252) $ 516 $ 3,232 During fiscal year 2016 , the Company expects to contribute a total of approximately $ 5 million to $ 10 million to the Company's defined benefit plans.

Business Segment Information

Business Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Business Segment Information [Abstract]
Business Segment Information	11 Business Segment Information The Company's business activities, for which discrete financial information is available, are regularly reviewed and evaluated by the chief operating decision maker . As a result of this evaluation, the Company determined that it has two operating segments: Waters and TA. The Waters operating segment is primarily in the business of designing, manufacturing, distributing and servicing LC and MS instruments, columns and other chemistry consumables that can be integrated and used along with other analytical instruments. The TA operating segment is primarily in the business of designing, manufacturing, distributing and servicing thermal analysis, rheometry and calorimetry instruments. The Company's two operating segments have similar economic characteristics; product processes; products and services; types and classes of customers; methods of distribution and regulatory environments. Because of these similarities, the two segments have been aggregated into one reporting segment for financial statement purposes. Please refer to the consolidated financial statements for financial information regarding the one reportable segment of the Company. Net sales for the Company's products and services are as follows for the three and six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 (in thousands): Three Months Ended Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Product net sales: Waters instrument systems $ 231,908 $ 217,576 $ 420,437 $ 406,080 Chemistry 87,048 77,739 171,198 155,922 TA instrument systems 40,731 36,721 75,909 72,907 Total product sales 359,687 332,036 667,544 634,909 Service net sales: Waters service 159,775 146,917 311,289 289,898 TA service 17,098 15,787 32,973 30,337 Total service sales 176,873 162,704 344,262 320,235 Total net sales $ 536,560 $ 494,740 $ 1,011,806 $ 955,144

Recent Accounting Standard Chan

Recent Accounting Standard Changes and Developments	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Recent Accounting Standard Changes and Developments [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Standard Changes and Developments	12 Recent Accounting Standard Changes and Developments Recently Issued Accounting Standards In May 2014, amended accounting guidance was issued regarding the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The objective of this guidance is to significantly enhance comparability and clarify principles of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions and capital markets. This guidance was originally effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016; however, the Financial Accounting Standards Board has amended the standard in August 2015 to delay the effective period date by one year to annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Adoption prior to December 15, 2016 is not permitted. In March 2016, the FASB clarified the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations and, in April 2016, clarification was made regarding certain aspects of identifying performance obligations and licensing implementation guidance. In May 2016, additional guidance was issued related to disclosure of remaining performance obligations, as well as other amendments to guidance on collectibility , non-cash consideration and the presentation of sales and other similar taxes collected from customers. The Company is currently evaluating its adoption method and the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In July 2015, accounting guidance was issued which clarifies the measurement of inventory. The new guidance requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In January 2016, accounting guidance was issued which primarily affects the classification and measurement of certain financial instruments, principally equity investments and certain financial liabilities. Under the new guidance, there will no longer be an available-for-sale classification for equity securities with readily determinable fair values. Changes to the fair value of equity investments will be recognized through earnings. Equity investments carried at cost should be adjusted for changes in observable prices, as applicable, and qualitatively assessed for impairment annually. Changes to the fair value of financial liabilities under the fair value option due to instrument specific credit risk will be recognized separately in other comprehensive income. The new guidance also requires financial assets and financial liabilities to be presented separately and grouped by measurement category in the notes to the financial statements. This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and early adoption of certain provisions of this guidance is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In February 2016, accounting guidance was issued regarding the accounting for leases. This new comprehensive lease standard amends various aspects of existing accounting guidance for leases. The core principle of the new guidance will require lessees to present the assets and liabilities that arise from leases on their balance sheets. This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018 and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In March 2016, accounting guidance was issued which simplifies the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities and classification on the statement of cash flows. This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows . In June 2016, accounting guidance was issued that modifies the recognition of credit losses related to financial assets , such as debt securities, trade receivables, net investments in leases, off-balance sheet credit exposures, and other financial assets that have the contractual right to receive cash. Current guidance requires the recognition of a credit loss when it is considered probable that a loss event was incurred. The new guidance requires the measurement of expected credit losses to be based upon relevant information , including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the asset. As such, expected credit losses may be recognized sooner under the new guidance due to the broader range of information that will be required to determine credit loss estimates. The new guidance also amends the current other-than-temporary impairment model used for debt securities classified as available - for - sale. When the fair value of an available - for - sale debt security is below its amortized cost, the new guidance requires the total unrealized loss to be bifurcated into its credit and non-credit components. Any expected credit losses or subsequent recoveries will be recognized in earnings and any changes not considered credit related will continue to be recognized within other comprehensive income. This guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows .

Basis of Presentation and Sum19

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Nature of Operations	Waters Corporation (“Waters ® ” or the “Company”) is an analytical instrument manufacturer that primarily designs, manufactures, sells and services high performance liquid chromatography (“HPLC”), ultra performance liquid chromatography (“UPLC ® ” and together with HPLC, referred to as “LC”) and mass spectrometry (“MS”) technology systems and support products, including chromatography columns, other consumable products and comprehensive post-warranty service plans. These systems are complementary products that are frequently employed together (“LC-MS”) and sold as integrated instrument systems using a common software platform . LC is a standard technique and is utilized in a broad range of industries to detect, identify, monitor and measure the chemical, physical and biological composition of materials, and to purify a full range of compounds. MS instruments are used in drug discovery and development, including clinical trial testing, the analysis of proteins in disease process es (known as “proteomics”), nutritional safety analysis and environmental testing. LC -MS instruments combine a liquid phase sample introduction and separation system with mass spectrometric compound identification and quantification. In addition , the Company designs, manufactures, sells and services thermal analysis, rheometry and calorimetry instruments through its TA ® product line. These instruments are used in predicting the suitability and stability of fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, water, polymers , metals and viscous liquids for various industrial, consumer goods and healthcare products, as well as for pharmaceutical research. The Company is also a developer and supplier of software-based products that interface with the Company's instruments , as well as other suppliers' instruments, and are typically purchased by customers as part of the instrument system.
Fiscal Period	The Company's interim fiscal quarter typically ends on the thirteenth Saturday of each quarter. Since the Company's fiscal year end is December 31, the first and fourth fiscal quarters may have more or less than thirteen complete weeks. The Company's second fiscal quarters for 2016 and 2015 ended on July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 , respectively.
Basis of Accounting	The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and note disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the United States of America. It is management's opinion that the accompanying interim consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (which are normal and recurring) that are necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods. The interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statem ents included in the Company's A nnual R eport on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 , as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on February 26, 2016.
Use of Estimates	The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent liabilities at the dates of the financial statements. Actual amounts may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
Principles of Consolidation	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, which are wholly owned. All material inter-company balances and tra nsactions have been eliminated.
Translation of Foreign Currencies	Translation of Foreign Currencies For most of the Company's foreign operations, assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates prevailing on the balance sheet date, while revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the period. The functional currency of each of the Company's foreign operating subsidiaries is the local currency of that particular country, except for the Company's subsidiaries in Hong Kong, Singapore and the Cayman Islands, where the underlying transactional cash flows are denominated in currencies other than the respective local currency of domicile. The functional currency of the Hong Kong, Singapore and Cayman Islands subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar, based on the respective entity's cash flows.
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments Policy	Cash equivalents represent highly liquid investments, with original maturities of 90 days or less, while investments with longer maturities are classified as investments.
Fair Value Measurements Policy	Fair Value Measurements In accordance with the accounting standards for fair value measurements and disclosures, certain of the Company's assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . Fair values determined by Level 1 inputs utilize observable data , such as quoted prices in active markets. Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs utilize data points other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly. Fair values determined by Level 3 inputs utilize unobservable data points for which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions. Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments The Company's cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and variable interest rate debt are recorded at cost , which approximates fair value.
Derivatives Policy	The foreign currency exchange contracts are not designated for hedge accounting treatment.
Product Warranty Costs	Product Warranty Costs The Company accrues estimated product warranty costs at the time of sale, which are included in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of operations. While the Company engages in extensive product quality programs and processes, including actively monitoring and evaluating the quality of its component supplie r s, the Company's warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, material usage and service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure. The amount of the accrued warranty liability is based on historical inform ation, such as past experience, product failure rates, number of units repaired and estimated costs of material and labor. The liability is reviewed for re asonableness at least quarterly.

Income Taxes (Policies)

Income Taxes (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Tax Policy	The Company accounts for its uncertain tax return reporting positions in accordan ce with the accounting standards for income taxes, which require financial statement reporting of the expected future tax consequences of uncertain tax reporting positions on the presumption that all concerned tax authoriti es possess full knowledge of those tax reporting positions, as well as all of the pertinent facts and circumstances, but prohibit any discounting of u nrecognized tax benefits associated with those reporting positions for the time value of money.

Stock-Based Compensation (Polic

Stock-Based Compensation (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation Policy	The Company accounts for stock-based compensation costs in accordance with the accounting standard s for stock-based compensation, which require that all share-based payments to employees be recognized in the statements of operations based on their grant date fair values. The Company recognizes the expense using the straight-line attribution method. The stock-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations is based on awards that ultimately are expected to vest; therefore, the amount of expense has been reduced for estimated forfeitures. The stock-based compensation accounting standard s require forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Forfeitures were estimated based on historical experience. If actual results differ significantly from these estimates, stock-based compensation expense and the Company's results of operations could be materially impacted. In addition, if the Company employs different assum ptions in the application of the s e standard s , the compensation expense that the Company records in the future periods may differ significantly from what the Company has recorded in the current period. Stock Options In determining the fair value of the stock options, the Company makes a variety of assumptions and estimates, including volatility measures, expected yields and expected stock option lives. The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black- Scholes option pricing model. The Company uses implied volatility on its publicly - traded options as the basis for its estimate of expected volatility. The Company believes that implied volatility is the most appropriate indicator of expected volatility because it is generally reflective of historical volatility and expectations of how future volatility will differ from historical volatility. The expected life assumption for grants is based on historical experience for the population of non-qualified stock option exercises . The risk-free interest rate is the yield currently available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with a remaining term approximating the expected term used as the input to the Black- Scholes model.

Earnings Per Share (Policies)

Earnings Per Share (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share Policy	The effect of dilutive securities was calculated using the treasury stock method.

Recent Accounting Standard Ch23

Recent Accounting Standard Changes and Develpments (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Recent Accounting Standard Changes and Developments [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Issued Accounting Standards In May 2014, amended accounting guidance was issued regarding the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The objective of this guidance is to significantly enhance comparability and clarify principles of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions and capital markets. This guidance was originally effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016; however, the Financial Accounting Standards Board has amended the standard in August 2015 to delay the effective period date by one year to annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Adoption prior to December 15, 2016 is not permitted. In March 2016, the FASB clarified the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations and, in April 2016, clarification was made regarding certain aspects of identifying performance obligations and licensing implementation guidance. In May 2016, additional guidance was issued related to disclosure of remaining performance obligations, as well as other amendments to guidance on collectibility , non-cash consideration and the presentation of sales and other similar taxes collected from customers. The Company is currently evaluating its adoption method and the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In July 2015, accounting guidance was issued which clarifies the measurement of inventory. The new guidance requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In January 2016, accounting guidance was issued which primarily affects the classification and measurement of certain financial instruments, principally equity investments and certain financial liabilities. Under the new guidance, there will no longer be an available-for-sale classification for equity securities with readily determinable fair values. Changes to the fair value of equity investments will be recognized through earnings. Equity investments carried at cost should be adjusted for changes in observable prices, as applicable, and qualitatively assessed for impairment annually. Changes to the fair value of financial liabilities under the fair value option due to instrument specific credit risk will be recognized separately in other comprehensive income. The new guidance also requires financial assets and financial liabilities to be presented separately and grouped by measurement category in the notes to the financial statements. This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and early adoption of certain provisions of this guidance is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In February 2016, accounting guidance was issued regarding the accounting for leases. This new comprehensive lease standard amends various aspects of existing accounting guidance for leases. The core principle of the new guidance will require lessees to present the assets and liabilities that arise from leases on their balance sheets. This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018 and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In March 2016, accounting guidance was issued which simplifies the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities and classification on the statement of cash flows. This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows . In June 2016, accounting guidance was issued that modifies the recognition of credit losses related to financial assets , such as debt securities, trade receivables, net investments in leases, off-balance sheet credit exposures, and other financial assets that have the contractual right to receive cash. Current guidance requires the recognition of a credit loss when it is considered probable that a loss event was incurred. The new guidance requires the measurement of expected credit losses to be based upon relevant information , including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the asset. As such, expected credit losses may be recognized sooner under the new guidance due to the broader range of information that will be required to determine credit loss estimates. The new guidance also amends the current other-than-temporary impairment model used for debt securities classified as available - for - sale. When the fair value of an available - for - sale debt security is below its amortized cost, the new guidance requires the total unrealized loss to be bifurcated into its credit and non-credit components. Any expected credit losses or subsequent recoveries will be recognized in earnings and any changes not considered credit related will continue to be recognized within other comprehensive income. This guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact that the adoption of this standard will have on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows .

Basis of Presentation and Signi

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets And Liabilities	The following table represents the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at July 2, 2016 (in thousands) : Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets Other Significant for Identical Observable Unobservable Total at Assets Inputs Inputs July 2, 2016 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: U.S. Treasury securities $ 585,448 $ - $ 585,448 $ - Foreign government securities 18,024 - 18,024 - Corporate debt securities 1,454,719 - 1,454,719 - Time deposits 166,152 - 166,152 - Equity securities 147 - 147 - Other cash equivalents 11,000 - 11,000 - Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets 30,031 - 30,031 - Foreign currency exchange contracts 174 - 174 - Total $ 2,265,695 $ - $ 2,265,695 $ - Liabilities: Contingent consideration $ 4,608 $ - $ - $ 4,608 Foreign currency exchange contracts 952 - 952 - Total $ 5,560 $ - $ 952 $ 4,608 The following table represents the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recu rring basis at December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets Other Significant Total at for Identical Observable Unobservable December 31, Assets Inputs Inputs 2015 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: U.S. Treasury securities $ 627,156 $ - $ 627,156 $ - Foreign government securities 15,199 - 15,199 - Corporate debt securities 1,324,318 - 1,324,318 - Time deposits 74,947 - 74,947 - Equity securities 147 - 147 - Other cash equivalents 27,000 - 27,000 - Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets 35,823 - 35,823 - Foreign currency exchange contracts 616 - 616 - Total $ 2,105,206 $ - $ 2,105,206 $ - Liabilities: Contingent consideration $ 4,215 $ - $ - $ 4,215 Foreign currency exchange contracts 402 - 402 - Total $ 4,617 $ - $ 402 $ 4,215
Summary of Derivative Instruments by Risk Exposure [Abstract]
Gains (Losses) on Foreign Exchange Contracts	The following is a summary of the activity in the statements of operations related to the foreign exchange contracts (in thousands): Three Months Ended Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Realized (losses) gains on closed contracts $ (5,637) $ 2,542 $ (7,531) $ (805) Unrealized (losses) gains on open contracts (963) (280) (992) 62 Cumulative net pre-tax (losses) gains $ (6,600) $ 2,262 $ (8,523) $ (743)
Fair Value of Forward Foreign Exchange Contracts	T he Company's foreign currency exchange contracts included in the consolid ated balance sheets are classified as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Other current assets $ 174 $ 616 Other current liabilities $ 952 $ 402
Warranty Accrual Roll Forward [Abstract]
Warranty Accrual Roll Forward	The following is a summary of the activity of the Company's accrued warranty liability for the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 (in thousands): Balance at Balance at Beginning Accruals for Settlements End of of Period Warranties Made Period Accrued warranty liability: July 2, 2016 $ 13,349 $ 4,297 $ (4,719) $ 12,927 July 4, 2015 $ 13,266 $ 3,744 $ (3,971) $ 13,039

Marketable Securities (Tables)

Marketable Securities (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities Reconciliation	The Company's marketable securities within cash equivalents and investments included in the consolidated balance sheets are detailed as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gain Loss Value U.S. Treasury securities $ 584,156 $ 1,293 $ (1) $ 585,448 Foreign government securities 17,999 25 - 18,024 Corporate debt securities 1,453,165 1,934 (380) 1,454,719 Time deposits 166,152 - - 166,152 Equity securities 77 70 - 147 Total $ 2,221,549 $ 3,322 $ (381) $ 2,224,490 Amounts included in: Cash equivalents $ 88,085 $ 1 $ - $ 88,086 Investments 2,133,464 3,321 (381) 2,136,404 Total $ 2,221,549 $ 3,322 $ (381) $ 2,224,490 December 31, 2015 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gain Loss Value U.S. Treasury securities $ 628,358 $ 16 $ (1,218) $ 627,156 Foreign government securities 15,216 - (17) 15,199 Corporate debt securities 1,325,398 159 (1,239) 1,324,318 Time deposits 74,947 - - 74,947 Equity securities 77 70 - 147 Total $ 2,043,996 $ 245 $ (2,474) $ 2,041,767 Amounts included in: Cash equivalents $ 130,169 $ - $ - $ 130,169 Investments 1,913,827 245 (2,474) 1,911,598 Total $ 2,043,996 $ 245 $ (2,474) $ 2,041,767
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date	The estimated fair value of marketable debt securities by maturity date is as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Due in one year or less $ 1,251,708 $ 1,137,825 Due after one year through three years 806,483 828,848 Total $ 2,058,191 $ 1,966,673

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Inventory Items, Net Of Reserves Alternative [Abstract]
Inventory, Net of Reserves	Inventories are classi fied as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Raw materials $ 94,171 $ 88,625 Work in progress 18,240 20,901 Finished goods 174,036 153,889 Total inventories $ 286,447 $ 263,415

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Goodwill and Other Intangibles [Abstract]
Schedule of Intangible Assets by Major Class	T he Company's intangible assets included in the consolidated balance sheets are detailed as follows (in thousands): July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Weighted- Weighted- Gross Average Gross Average Carrying Accumulated Amortization Carrying Accumulated Amortization Amount Amortization Period Amount Amortization Period Capitalized software $ 359,378 $ 221,241 6 years $ 335,949 $ 204,267 7 years Purchased intangibles 163,468 124,872 11 years 163,500 119,505 11 years Trademarks and IPR&D 13,870 - 14,364 - Licenses 4,948 3,927 6 years 5,396 4,046 6 years Patents and other intangibles 60,209 34,440 8 years 58,519 31,888 8 years Total $ 601,873 $ 384,480 7 years $ 577,728 $ 359,706 8 years

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Debt [Abstract]
Schedule of Outstanding Debt	T he Company had the following outstanding debt a t July 2, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (in thousands) : July 2, 2016 December 31, 2015 Foreign subsidiary lines of credit $ 260 $ 322 Senior unsecured notes - Series C - 2.50%, due March 2016 - 50,000 Credit agreements 125,000 125,000 Unamortized debt issuance costs - (13) Total notes payable and debt 125,260 175,309 Senior unsecured notes - Series B - 5.00%, due February 2020 100,000 100,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series D - 3.22%, due March 2018 100,000 100,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series E - 3.97%, due March 2021 50,000 50,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series F - 3.40%, due June 2021 100,000 100,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series G - 3.92%, due June 2024 50,000 50,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series H - floating rate*, due June 2024 50,000 50,000 Senior unsecured notes - Series I - 3.13%, due May 2023 50,000 - Senior unsecured notes - Series J - floating rate**, due May 2024 40,000 - Senior unsecured notes - Series K - 3.44%, due May 2026 160,000 - Credit agreements 935,000 1,045,000 Unamortized debt issuance costs (3,302) (1,973) Total long-term debt 1,631,698 1,493,027 Total debt $ 1,756,958 $ 1,668,336 * Series H senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.25%. ** Series J senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.45%.
Schedule of Debt Issuances	On May 12, 2016 , the Company issued and sold the following senior unsecured notes: Senior Face Value Unsecured Notes Term Interest Rate (in millions) Maturity Date Series I 7 years 3.13% $ 50 May 2023 Series J 8 years Floating Rate* $ 40 May 2024 Series K 10 years 3.44% $ 160 May 2026 *Series J senior unsecured notes bear interest at 3 month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.45%.

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward	The following is a summary of the activity of the Company's unrecognized tax benefits for the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 (in thousands): July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Balance at the beginning of the period $ 14,450 $ 19,596 Net changes in uncertain tax benefits (2,563) 57 Balance at the end of the period $ 11,887 $ 19,653

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock-Based Compensation Expense	The consolidated statements of operations for the three and six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 include the following stock-based compensation expense related to stock option awards, restricted stock, restricted stock unit awards and the employee stock purch ase plan (in thousands): Three Months Ended Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Cost of sales $ 656 $ 648 $ 1,327 $ 1,322 Selling and administrative expenses 6,613 6,426 20,582 13,060 Research and development expenses 1,127 1,081 2,328 2,228 Total stock-based compensation $ 8,396 $ 8,155 $ 24,237 $ 16,610
Relevant Data Used to Determine the Value of Stock Options Granted During the Period	The relevant data used to determine the value of the stock options granted during the six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 are as follows: Six Months Ended Options Issued and Significant Assumptions Used to Estimate Option Fair Values July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Options issued (in thousands) 86 37 Risk-free interest rate 1.5% 1.7% Expected life in years 5 4 Expected volatility 0.286 0.262 Expected dividends - - Six Months Ended Weighted-Average Exercise Price and Fair Value of Options on the Date of Grant July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Exercise price $ 122.65 $ 116.65 Fair value $ 34.63 $ 28.17
Stock Options Outstanding Roll Forward	T he following table summarizes stock option activity for the plans for the six months ended July 2, 2016 (in thousands, except per share data): Number of Shares Price per Share Weighted-Average Exercise Price Outstanding at December 31, 2015 3,154 $ 38.09 to $ 134.37 $ 96.73 Granted 86 $ 117.68 to $ 130.35 $ 122.65 Exercised (252) $ 41.20 to $ 113.36 $ 79.21 Canceled (50) $ 79.15 to $ 128.93 $ 109.16 Outstanding at July 2, 2016 2,938 $ 38.09 to $ 134.37 $ 98.78
Restricted Stock Units Unvested Roll Forward	The following table summarizes the unvested restricted stock unit award activity for the six months ended July 2, 2016 (in thousands, except for per share data ): Shares Weighted-Average Price Unvested at December 31, 2015 497 $ 104.16 Granted 136 $ 117.75 Vested (135) $ 97.57 Forfeited (9) $ 112.25 Unvested at July 2, 2016 489 $ 109.61

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share Reconciliation	Basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) calculations are detailed as follows (in th ousands, except per share data): Three Months Ended July 2, 2016 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 128,217 80,804 $ 1.59 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 651 (0.02) Net income per diluted common share $ 128,217 81,455 $ 1.57 Three Months Ended July 4, 2015 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 105,657 82,564 $ 1.28 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 768 (0.01) Net income per diluted common share $ 105,657 83,332 $ 1.27 Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 222,269 81,043 $ 2.74 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 620 (0.02) Net income per diluted common share $ 222,269 81,663 $ 2.72 Six Months Ended July 4, 2015 Net Income Weighted-Average Shares Per Share (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Net income per basic common share $ 201,718 82,798 $ 2.44 Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities - 753 (0.03) Net income per diluted common share $ 201,718 83,551 $ 2.41

Accumulated Other Comprehensi32

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The components of accumulated other comprehensive income are detailed as follows (in thousands): Currency Translation Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Benefit Plans Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (103,570) $ (40,946) $ (2,210) $ (146,726) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (15,434) 230 5,001 (10,203) Balance at July 2, 2016 $ (119,004) $ (40,716) $ 2,791 $ (156,929)

Retirement Plans (Tables)

Retirement Plans (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Retirement Plans [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	The summary of the components of net periodic pension costs for the plans for the three and six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 is as follows (in thousands): Three Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. Pension Healthcare Pension Pension Healthcare Pension Plans Plan Plans Plans Plan Plans Service cost $ 94 $ 116 $ 1,250 $ - $ 262 $ 1,337 Interest cost 1,745 135 429 1,513 118 402 Expected return on plan assets (2,417) (130) (406) (2,318) (122) (410) Net amortization: Prior service (credit) cost - - (49) - - 14 Net actuarial loss 667 - 192 679 - 273 Net periodic pension cost (benefit) $ 89 $ 121 $ 1,416 $ (126) $ 258 $ 1,616 Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. U.S. U.S. Retiree Non-U.S. Pension Healthcare Pension Pension Healthcare Pension Plans Plan Plans Plans Plan Plans Service cost $ 188 $ 232 $ 2,468 $ - $ 524 $ 2,674 Interest cost 3,490 270 850 3,026 236 804 Expected return on plan assets (4,834) (260) (805) (4,636) (244) (820) Net amortization: Prior service (credit) cost - - (94) - - 28 Net actuarial loss 1,334 - 380 1,358 - 546 Net periodic pension cost (benefit) $ 178 $ 242 $ 2,799 $ (252) $ 516 $ 3,232

Business Segment Information (T

Business Segment Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016
Business Segment Information [Abstract]
Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services	Net sales for the Company's products and services are as follows for the three and six months ended July 2, 2016 and July 4, 2015 (in thousands): Three Months Ended Six Months Ended July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 July 2, 2016 July 4, 2015 Product net sales: Waters instrument systems $ 231,908 $ 217,576 $ 420,437 $ 406,080 Chemistry 87,048 77,739 171,198 155,922 TA instrument systems 40,731 36,721 75,909 72,907 Total product sales 359,687 332,036 667,544 634,909 Service net sales: Waters service 159,775 146,917 311,289 289,898 TA service 17,098 15,787 32,973 30,337 Total service sales 176,873 162,704 344,262 320,235 Total net sales $ 536,560 $ 494,740 $ 1,011,806 $ 955,144

Basis of Presentation and Sum35

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	May 31, 2014	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash Equivalents and Investments [Line Items]
Cash equivalents description				Cash equivalents represent highly liquid investments, with original maturities of 90 days or less, while investments with longer maturities are classified as investments.
Cash, cash equivalents and investments		$ 2,600,000,000		$ 2,600,000,000		$ 2,399,000,000
Derivative [Line Items]
Foreign currency exposure				The Company is a global company that operates in over 35 countries and, as a result, the Company’s net sales, cost of sales, operating expenses and balance sheet amounts are significantly impacted by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
Maturity period of foreign exchange contracts				The Company periodically aggregates its net worldwide balances by currency and then enters into foreign currency exchange contracts that mature within 90 days to hedge a portion of the remaining balance to minimize some of the Company’s currency price risk exposure.
Notional amount of foreign exchange contracts		128,000,000		$ 128,000,000		116,000,000
Realized (losses) gains on foreign exchange contracts		(5,637,000)	$ 2,542,000	(7,531,000)	$ (805,000)
Unrealized (losses) gains on foreign exchange contracts		(963,000)	(280,000)	(992,000)	62,000
Cumulative net pre-tax (losses) gains on foreign exchange contracts		(6,600,000)	2,262,000	(8,523,000)	(743,000)
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		2,224,490,000		2,224,490,000		2,041,767,000
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term debt		1,631,698,000		1,631,698,000		1,493,027,000
Warranty Accrual Roll Forward [Abstract]
Accrued warranty liability, balance at beginning of period				13,349,000	13,266,000
Accruals for warranties				4,297,000	3,744,000
Settlements made				(4,719,000)	(3,971,000)
Accrued warranty liability, balance at end of period		12,927,000	$ 13,039,000	12,927,000	$ 13,039,000
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other cash equivalents		11,000,000		11,000,000		27,000,000
Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets		30,031,000		30,031,000		35,823,000
Forward foreign exchange contract assets		174,000		174,000		616,000
Fair value of total assets measured on a recurring basis		2,265,695,000		2,265,695,000		2,105,206,000
Contingent consideration		4,608,000		4,608,000		4,215,000
Forward foreign exchange contract liabilities		952,000		952,000		402,000
Fair value of total liabilities measured on a recurring basis		5,560,000		5,560,000		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		11,000,000		11,000,000		27,000,000
Waters 401(k) Restoration Plan assets		30,031,000		30,031,000		35,823,000
Forward foreign exchange contract assets		174,000		174,000		616,000
Fair value of total assets measured on a recurring basis		2,265,695,000		2,265,695,000		2,105,206,000
Forward foreign exchange contract liabilities		952,000		952,000		402,000
Fair value of total liabilities measured on a recurring basis		952,000		952,000		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		4,608,000		4,608,000		4,215,000
Fair value of total liabilities measured on a recurring basis		4,608,000		4,608,000		4,215,000
Held in currencies other than U.S. dollars [Member]
Cash Equivalents and Investments [Line Items]
Cash, cash equivalents and investments		252,000,000		$ 252,000,000		248,000,000
Programs authorized by Board of Directors [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Treasury stock shares acquired				1.3	1.3
Treasury stock				$ 166,000,000	$ 165,000,000
Related to Vesting of Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program [Line Items]
Treasury stock				6,000,000	$ 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		275,000,000		275,000,000
Stock repurchase program period	3 years
US Treasury Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		585,448,000		585,448,000		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		585,448,000		585,448,000		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		18,024,000		18,024,000		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		18,024,000		18,024,000		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		1,454,719,000		1,454,719,000		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		1,454,719,000		1,454,719,000		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		166,152,000		166,152,000		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		166,152,000		166,152,000		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
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
Unsecured debt | Fixed interest rate [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Long-term debt		610,000,000		610,000,000		450,000,000
Fair value of debt instrument		623,000,000		623,000,000		454,000,000
Held by foreign subsidiaries [Member]
Cash Equivalents and Investments [Line Items]
Cash, cash equivalents and investments		$ 2,559,000,000		$ 2,559,000,000		$ 2,346,000,000

Marketable Securities (Details)

Marketable Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 02, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$ 2,221,549	$ 2,043,996
Unrealized Gain	3,322	245
Unrealized Loss	(381)	(2,474)
Fair Value	2,224,490	2,041,767
Debt securities due in one year or less	1,251,708	1,137,825
Due after one year through three years	806,483	828,848
Total debt securities	2,058,191	1,966,673
Cash Equivalents [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	88,085	130,169
Unrealized Gain	1
Fair Value	88,086	130,169
Investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	2,133,464	1,913,827
Unrealized Gain	3,321	245
Unrealized Loss	(381)	(2,474)
Fair Value	2,136,404	1,911,598
US Treasury Securities
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	584,156	628,358
Unrealized Gain	1,293	16
Unrealized Loss	(1)	(1,218)
US Treasury Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Fair Value	585,448	627,156
Foreign Government Debt Securities
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	17,999	15,216
Unrealized Gain	25
Unrealized Loss		(17)
Foreign Government Debt Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Fair Value	18,024	15,199
Corporate Debt Securities
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	1,453,165	1,325,398
Unrealized Gain	1,934	159
Unrealized Loss	(380)	(1,239)
Corporate Debt Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Fair Value	1,454,719	1,324,318
Time Deposits
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	166,152	74,947
Time Deposits | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Fair Value	166,152	74,947
Equity Securities
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	77	77
Unrealized Gain	70	70
Equity Securities | Fair Value Measurements, Recurring
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities [Line Items]
Fair Value	$ 147	$ 147

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 02, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory Items, Net Of Reserves Alternative [Abstract]
Raw materials	$ 94,171	$ 88,625
Work in progress	18,240	20,901
Finished goods	174,036	153,889
Total inventories	$ 286,447	$ 263,415

Goodwill and Other Intangible38

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 352,987		$ 352,987		$ 356,864
Goodwill foreign currency translation adjustments			(4,000)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization	384,480		$ 384,480		$ 359,706
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years			7 years		8 years
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	13,870		$ 13,870		$ 14,364
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, gross	601,873		601,873		577,728
Intangible assets, gross foreign currency translation adjustments			4,000
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization foreign currency translation adjustments			2,000
Amortization expense	11,000	$ 11,000	22,000	$ 22,000
FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpenseAbstract
Future amortization expense, year 1	44,000		44,000
Future amortization expense, year 2	44,000		44,000
Future amortization expense, year 3	44,000		44,000
Future amortization expense, year 4	44,000		44,000
Future amortization expense, year 5	44,000		44,000
Capitalized software [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	359,378		359,378		335,949
Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization	221,241		$ 221,241		$ 204,267
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years			6 years		7 years
Purchased intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	163,468		$ 163,468		$ 163,500
Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization	124,872		$ 124,872		$ 119,505
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years			11 years		11 years
Licenses [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	4,948		$ 4,948		$ 5,396
Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization	3,927		$ 3,927		$ 4,046
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years			6 years		6 years
Patents and other intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	60,209		$ 60,209		$ 58,519
Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization	$ 34,440		$ 34,440		$ 31,888
Finite-lived intangible assets, average useful life in years			8 years		8 years

Debt (Details)

Debt (Details) - USD ($)		May 12, 2016	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Apr. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2013
Debt [Line Items]
Notes payable and debt			$ 125,260,000		$ 175,309,000
Long-term debt			1,631,698,000		1,493,027,000
Total debt			1,756,958,000		1,668,336,000
Proceeds from debt issuances			400,177,000	$ 195,073,000
Line of Credit [Line Items]
Foreign subsidiary lines of credit			260,000		322,000
Line of credit maximum borrowing capacity			$ 101,000,000		$ 97,000,000
Line of credit interest rate during the period			1.48%		1.24%
Current Liabilities
Debt [Line Items]
Unamortized debt issuance costs					$ (13,000)
Long-Term Liabilities
Debt [Line Items]
Unamortized debt issuance costs			$ (3,302,000)		(1,973,000)
Senior unsecured notes - Series B [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Stated interest rate on debt instrument			5.00%
Long-term debt			$ 100,000,000		$ 100,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series C [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Stated interest rate on debt instrument					2.50%
Notes payable and debt					$ 50,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series D [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Stated interest rate on debt instrument			3.22%
Long-term debt			$ 100,000,000		100,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series E [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Stated interest rate on debt instrument			3.97%
Long-term debt			$ 50,000,000		50,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series F [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Stated interest rate on debt instrument			3.40%
Long-term debt			$ 100,000,000		100,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series G [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Stated interest rate on debt instrument			3.92%
Long-term debt			$ 50,000,000		50,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series H [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Interest rate terms on debt			* Series H senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.25%.
Long-term debt	[1]		$ 50,000,000		50,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series I [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Face value of debt		$ 50,000,000
Debt term			7 years
Stated interest rate on debt instrument			3.13%
Long-term debt			$ 50,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series J [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Face value of debt		40,000,000
Debt term			8 years
Interest rate terms on debt			** Series J senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.45%.
Long-term debt	[2]		$ 40,000,000
Senior unsecured notes - Series K [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Face value of debt		160,000,000
Debt term			10 years
Stated interest rate on debt instrument			3.44%
Long-term debt			$ 160,000,000
Credit Agreements
Debt [Line Items]
Interest rate terms on debt			The interest rates applicable to the Amended Credit Agreement are, at the Company’s option, equal to either the alternate base rate calculated daily (which is a rate per annum equal to the greatest of (a) the prime rate in effect on such day, (b) the federal funds effective rate in effect on such day plus 1/2% per annum, or (c) the adjusted LIBO rate on such day (or if such day is not a business day, the immediately preceding business day) for a deposit in U.S. dollars with a maturity of one month plus 1% per annum) or the applicable 1, 2, 3 or 6 month adjusted LIBO rate, in each case, plus an interest rate margin based upon the Company’s leverage ratio, which can range between 0 to 12.5 basis points for alternate base rate loans and between 80 basis points and 117.5 basis points for adjusted LIBO rate loans.
Debt facility fee			The facility fee on the Amended Credit Agreement ranges between 7.5 basis points and 20 basis points.
Debt covenant description			The Amended Credit Agreement requires that the Company comply with an interest coverage ratio test of not less than 3.50:1 as of the end of any fiscal quarter for any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters and a leverage ratio test of not more than 3.50:1 as of the end of any fiscal quarter.
Notes payable and debt			$ 125,000,000		125,000,000
Long-term debt			935,000,000		1,045,000,000
Unused borrowing capacity			538,000,000		428,000,000
Credit Agreements | Term loan facility [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Face value of debt							$ 300,000,000
Credit Agreements | Revolving facilities [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Face value of debt						$ 1,300,000,000	$ 1,100,000,000
Long-term debt			$ 635,000,000
Unsecured debt
Debt [Line Items]
Call feature on debt instrument			The Company may prepay all or some of the senior unsecured notes at any time in an amount not less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount outstanding, plus the applicable make-whole amount or prepayment premium for Series H and J senior unsecured notes. In the event of a change in control of the Company (as defined in the note purchase agreement), the Company may be required to prepay the senior unsecured notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
Debt covenant description			These senior unsecured notes require that the Company comply with an interest coverage ratio test of not less than 3.50:1 for any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters and a leverage ratio test of not more than 3.50:1 as of the end of any fiscal quarter.
Total debt			$ 700,000,000		$ 500,000,000
Proceeds from debt issuances		250,000,000
Unsecured debt | Payments towards outstanding portion of revolving facility [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Proceeds from debt issuances		$ 225,000,000
Credit Agreements and Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt [Line Items]
Weighted-average interest rate			2.40%		2.11%
[1]	* Series H senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.25%.
[2]	** Series J senior unsecured notes bear interest at a 3-month LIBOR for that floating rate interest period plus 1.45%.

Income Taxes (Details 1)

Income Taxes (Details 1) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Line Items]
Income tax holiday amount			$ 10
Income tax holiday per share benefit			$ 0.12
Effective income tax rate	11.90%	14.60%	11.80%	14.90%
United States [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Line Items]
Marginal effective income tax rate			37.50%
Ireland [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Line Items]
Marginal effective income tax rate			12.50%
United Kingdom [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Line Items]
Marginal effective income tax rate			20.00%
Singapore [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Line Items]
Marginal effective income tax rate			0.00%
Statutory tax rate			17.00%

Income Taxes (Details 2)

Income Taxes (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized tax benefits, balance at the beginning of the period	$ 14,450	$ 19,596
Net changes in uncertain tax benefits	(2,563)	57
Unrecognized tax benefits, balance at the end of the period	11,887	$ 19,653
Expected change in unrecognized tax benefits in the next twelve months	$ (5,000)

Stock-Based Compensation (Detai

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Stock Option Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Stock option fair value assumptions, risk free interest rate			1.50%	1.70%
Stock option fair value assumptions, expected life in years			5 years	4 years
Stock option fair value assumptions, expected volatility			28.60%	26.20%
Stock option fair value assumptions, expected dividends			$ 0	$ 0
Weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted			$ 34.63	$ 28.17
Stock Options Outstanding Roll Forward [Abstract]
Options outstanding at beginning of period			3,154
Options granted			86	37
Options exercised			(252)
Options canceled			(50)
Options outstanding at end of period	2,938		2,938
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding at beginning of period			$ 96.73
Weighted-average exercise price of options granted			122.65	$ 116.65
Weighted-average exercise price of options exercised			79.21
Weighted average exercise price of options canceled			109.16
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding at end of period	$ 98.78		$ 98.78
Stock-Based Compensation Allocation of Recognized Period Expense [Line Items]
Allocated stock-based compensation expense	$ 8,396,000	$ 8,155,000	$ 24,237,000	$ 16,610,000
Incremental stock-based compensation cost due to acceleration of awards			$ 7,000,000
Minimum
Stock Options Outstanding Roll Forward [Abstract]
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding at beginning of period			$ 38.09
Weighted-average exercise price of options granted			117.68
Weighted-average exercise price of options exercised			41.20
Weighted average exercise price of options canceled			79.15
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding at end of period	$ 38.09		38.09
Maximum
Stock Options Outstanding Roll Forward [Abstract]
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding at beginning of period			134.37
Weighted-average exercise price of options granted			130.35
Weighted-average exercise price of options exercised			113.36
Weighted average exercise price of options canceled			128.93
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding at end of period	$ 134.37		$ 134.37
Restricted Stock Plan
Unvested Awards Roll Forward
Shares granted			8
Weighted-average grant date fair value of shares granted			$ 130.35
Restricted Stock Unit Plan
Stock-Based Compensation by Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period			5 years
Unvested Awards Roll Forward
Unvested shares at beginning of period			497
Shares granted			136
Shares vested			(135)
Shares forfeited			(9)
Unvested shares at end of period	489		489
Weighted-average grant date fair value of shares unvested at beginning of period			$ 104.16
Weighted-average grant date fair value of shares granted			117.75
Weighted-average grant date fair value of shares vested			97.57
Weighted-average grant date fair value of shares forfeited			112.25
Weighted-average grant date fair value of shares unvested at end of period	$ 109.61		$ 109.61
Cost of sales [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation Allocation of Recognized Period Expense [Line Items]
Allocated stock-based compensation expense	$ 656,000	648,000	$ 1,327,000	1,322,000
Selling and administrative expenses [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation Allocation of Recognized Period Expense [Line Items]
Allocated stock-based compensation expense	6,613,000	6,426,000	20,582,000	13,060,000
Research and development expenses [Member]
Stock-Based Compensation Allocation of Recognized Period Expense [Line Items]
Allocated stock-based compensation expense	$ 1,127,000	$ 1,081,000	$ 2,328,000	$ 2,228,000

Earnings Per Share (Details)

Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract]
Net income	$ 128,217	$ 105,657	$ 222,269	$ 201,718
Net income per basic common share	$ 1.59	$ 1.28	$ 2.74	$ 2.44
Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities on earnings per share	(0.02)	(0.01)	(0.02)	(0.03)
Net income per diluted common share	$ 1.57	$ 1.27	$ 2.72	$ 2.41
Weighted-average number of basic common shares	80,804	82,564	81,043	82,798
Effect of dilutive stock option, restricted stock and restricted stock unit securities on shares outstanding	651	768	620	753
Weighted-average number of diluted common shares and equivalents	81,455	83,332	81,663	83,551
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	800	500	1,200	600

Accumulated Other Comprehensi44

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the beginning of the period			$ (146,726)
Other comprehensive (loss) income	$ (28,982)	$ 20,103	(10,203)	$ (39,568)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the end of the period	(156,929)		(156,929)
Currency Translation Adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the beginning of the period			(103,570)
Other comprehensive (loss) income			(15,434)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the end of the period	(119,004)		(119,004)
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Benefit Plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the beginning of the period			(40,946)
Other comprehensive (loss) income			230
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the end of the period	(40,716)		(40,716)
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the beginning of the period			(2,210)
Other comprehensive (loss) income			5,001
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, balance at the end of the period	$ 2,791		$ 2,791

Retirement Plans (Details)

Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015	Jul. 02, 2016	Jul. 04, 2015
Minimum
Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Estimated future employer contributions in current fiscal year			$ 5,000
Maximum
Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Estimated future employer contributions in current fiscal year			10,000
U.S. Pension Plans
Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost	$ 94		188
Interest cost	1,745	$ 1,513	3,490	$ 3,026
Expected return on plan assets	(2,417)	(2,318)	(4,834)	(4,636)
Net amortization: Net actuarial loss	667	679	1,334	1,358
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	89	(126)	178	(252)
U.S. Retiree Healthcare Plan
Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost	116	262	232	524
Interest cost	135	118	270	236
Expected return on plan assets	(130)	(122)	(260)	(244)
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	121	258	242	516
Non-U.S. Pension Plans
Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost	1,250	1,337	2,468	2,674
Interest cost	429	402	850	804
Expected return on plan assets	(406)	(410)	(805)	(820)
Net amortization: Prior service (credit) cost	(49)	14	(94)	28
Net amortization: Net actuarial loss	192	273	380	546
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)	$ 1,416	$ 1,616	$ 2,799	$ 3,232

Business Segment Information (D

Business Segment Information (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 04, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 02, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 04, 2015USD ($)
Business Segment Information [Line Items]
Number of operating segments			2
Number of reportable segments			1
Product sales	$ 359,687	$ 332,036	$ 667,544	$ 634,909
Service sales	176,873	162,704	344,262	320,235
Total net sales	536,560	494,740	1,011,806	955,144
Waters instrument systems [Member]
Business Segment Information [Line Items]
Product sales	231,908	217,576	420,437	406,080
Chemistry [Member]
Business Segment Information [Line Items]
Product sales	87,048	77,739	171,198	155,922
TA instrument systems [Member]
Business Segment Information [Line Items]
Product sales	40,731	36,721	75,909	72,907
Waters service [Member]
Business Segment Information [Line Items]
Service sales	159,775	146,917	311,289	289,898
TA service [Member]
Business Segment Information [Line Items]
Service sales	$ 17,098	$ 15,787	$ 32,973	$ 30,337