Neither side were able to find the crucial breakthrough, meaning the Hornets' first Premier League clean sheet in almost two years was enough to help them climb a place in the table.
The visitors had gone 31 games and parted company with six managers since their last shut-out at this level, but the Clarets struggled to find a way past Ben Foster in what was Roy Hodgson's first game in charge.
The ex-Manchester United goalkeeper denied Maxwel Cornet in each half following the Ivorian's return from AFCON while a fine block from Hassane Kamara denied Dutchman Wout Weghorst a debut goal as the ball looped on to the crossbar.
Captain Ben Mee almost steered the ball into his own net when defending a couple of Watford corners as Aaron Lennon cleared off the line in the first instance while the second, a headed clearance, flashed past the post.
Former Rovers man Josh King also threatened with a tremendous last-ditch intervention from James Tarkowski preventing the striker from pulling the trigger before Nick Pope made a save with his legs.
Here are the ratings.
9. Ashley Westwood 5
Probably did enough to limit Kayembe's influence in midfield, pressed energetically and purposefully, but unable to pick out the pass to unlock Watford's defence, with Cornet a willing runner. Showed for the ball, ran hard, illustrating all his usual traits. Photo: Clive Brunskill
10. Maxwel Cornet 5.5
It was always a big ask for the Ivorian to return from AFCON, following limited training/game time, and hit the ground running. Stung Foster's palms in the first half, before testing the Hornets' goalkeeper again in the second, and chased down every wayward pass. Photo: George Wood
11. Wort Weghorst 5
A difficult debut to assess from the Dutchman in appalling conditions and similarly treacherous service from his team-mates. Lost some headers he appeared favourite to win, sliced a second half shot horribly wide, but held the ball up well while a second half effort looped on to the crossbar. Photo: Alex Livesey
12. Jay Rodriguez 6.5
Made a significant difference when replacing Lennon for the final 25 minutes of the game. The substitute was lively across the front, nicking possession in key areas, and gave Watford's defenders a bit more to think about. Wasn't far off with a glancing header from a Roberts cross. Photo: Alex Livesey