Just coming across it now. Amazing. On a related note - I always wondered if Patek made a 3940 or 5140 in steel as a one off for a VIP. I guess we may never know!
Later common versions were automatic. This one is manual wind, like you said, 10 pieces in platinum. Speaking of 10 - I have had mine for 10 years now! Given how many pieces turn over in my collection, the fact that this one has had staying power means it's timeless to me at least.