The Biographical series (0.1 linear ft., 1959-1978, 1990, 1995) includes Watson's curriculum vitae and bibliography, providing a complete picture of his work as a scholar. A limited amount of correspondence is contained in the collection, the majority of which are written to and received from politicians, about policy issues and appointments. Correspondents include Warren Burger, Michigan governors Romney and Milliken, and numerous state senators.
The Professional series (1.9 linear feet, 1950-1993) is contains four subseries: Course Materials, Lectures, Writings, and Miscellaneous. The Course Materials subseries is the most extensive portion of the collection, including Watson's lecture notes and course manuals, exam materials, and some student evaluations of Watson. The majority of Watson's published work is included in the collection, as well as some drafts with the comment of collaborators and some unpublished materials. These materials provide the researcher with background information on Watson's scholarly pursuits. Most notable among the unpublished work are Watson's notes from a 13-month sabbatical in England from 1966 to 1967, where he studied and observed the British legal system.