| Document and Entity Information | Jul. 28, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | WATERS CORP /DE/ |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001000697 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jul. 28, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 01-14010 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-3668640 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 34 Maple Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Milford |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01757 |
| City Area Code | (508) |
| Local Phone Number | 478-2000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | WAT |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
