The main series consists of Watson's files as Coordinator for the Northeast Corridor Demonstration Project (1966-1971). It also contains copies of files maintained by his successor Edward R. Stickel. This series gives a very detailed account of the project, as Watson struggled to overcome the various technical shortcomings and get a product that would meet its performance specifications. It shows the many disputes, particularly those between the railroad and the Budd Company, and the political pressures to show the flag to members of Congress and entertain VIPs and visiting dignitaries, while at the same time struggling with complex technical problems and equipment that would barely work. Subject files focus on the main problem areas such as braking, suspension, pantographs and the like.

The Chronological file is practically a day-by-day account of the project, although some of Watson's earliest regular reports to headquarters are missing. It documents the exact movements of the test cars as they were modified or taken for tests on other railroads, the gradual improvements in Metroliner performance, and the give and take among the various parties. After the Metroliner cars enter revenue service, they give an account of all in-service failures, accidents, passenger loads, on-time performance, and cars out of service.

The Notes subseries consists of Watson's hand-written notes of daily activities, similar to a desk diary, that were used to produce the more formal typed reports.