Chartwell pads were originally developed in England by H. W. Peel. The company is known for "specialist" applications such as the Watershed Pads and Survey Books for engineers, surveyors, and scientists who work in tough outdoor environments. The Watershed Pad's synthetic paper is tear resistant and completely waterproof.

The covers are easy to wipe clean and the bright colors make them easy to spot if dropped or misplaced. Watershed notebooks are designed for use in very wet and humid conditions and can withstand certain chemicals, making them particularly useful for refineries or chemical plants.