Over a long and dedicated career, Dr. Watson moved from an apartment in Hooper House to Osterhout, to Airslie, and finally to Ballybung, where he continues to live with his wife, Elizabeth.

From 1994 to 2003 he was President of CSHL, and Chancellor from 2003-2007. Additionally, over the years, Dr. Watson has held the honorary titles of Chancellor Emeritus, Oliver R. Grace Professor Emeritus, and Honorary Trustee, but these titles were revoked in 2019 by CSHL.