Is the Bulova Surveyor 98B422 a good first automatic watch?

Yes, if you want a mechanical movement with a sapphire crystal and a date. Expect to reset the time now and then, since automatics drift by seconds.

Does it have a sapphire crystal?

Yes. Sapphire is harder than the mineral glass used on many watches at this level, so it resists everyday scratches better.

Is the red dial easy to read?

The dial uses index markers instead of numbers, with luminous hands. It reads cleanly in daylight; at night the lume helps but is not as bright as on dedicated dive watches.

Can I wear it swimming?

Treat it as a dress and everyday watch. No high water resistance is stated, so keep it out of showers, pools and the sea.

The watch on its stainless steel bracelet, with the clasp. Check the listing for any paperwork or packaging included.

How does it compare with the Bulova Surveyor line's other versions?

The case, bracelet and sapphire crystal carry across the line. This version is set apart by its red dial and automatic movement; other Surveyor models differ in dial color and movement.