Multiclient Seismic Data - Change in Carrying Amount of Multiclient Seismic Data (Detail) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2017 USD ($)
Multiclient Seismic Data [Abstract]
Balance at December 31, 2016	$ 1,073
Capitalized in period	223
Charged to expense	(304)
Balance at September 30, 2017	$ 992

Capitalized costs directly incurred in acquiring and processing of seismic surveys that are licensed on a nonexclusive basis, net of amortization.

No definition available.

Name:	slb_MulticlientSeismicData
Namespace Prefix:	slb_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant