As you are saying: this auto chrono movement was designed to run constantly as a "natural" way to work.
And as you are correctly saying it gives the watch a simple three hand watch appearance.
This one is typical Patek; discrete, elegant, conservative BUT with a twist, with a twinkling eye to say " I am not as simple, conservative as you think".
Being not a chrono man I must say I am very fond of this piece.
Best
Moritz