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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →The Omega Speedmaster “Holy Grail” is reference ST 376.0822, an uncommon 1987–1988 automatic chronograph that pairs a Moonwatch-style case with Omega caliber 1045. Its central chronograph minute hand, day-date display and 24-hour subdial make it unlike a conventional hand-wound Moonwatch. The nickname is credited to collector Chuck Maddox; the frequently repeated claim that only 2,000 were made comes from an auction catalogue, not a confirmed Omega production record.
What is the Omega Speedmaster “Holy Grail”?
It is the Speedmaster reference ST 376.0822, associated with 1987–1988. The name refers to this particular reference, not to the Speedmaster Moonwatch line as a whole. Fratello’s Robert-Jan Broer credits collector Chuck Maddox with popularizing “Holy Grail” through his determined pursuit of the watch. Fratello’s 2024 article revisits the reference and the story behind the nickname.
The model draws attention because it combines a Moonwatch-style steel case with an automatic movement and a display designed for practical timing and everyday information. An auction catalogue describes a 42 mm steel example, but that is a measurement for its specific lot, not a substitute for checking an individual watch. Dr. Crott Auctioneers’ catalogue dates its example to circa 1987 and records a sale date of September 22, 1988.
What makes its movement and display unusual?
Omega caliber 1045 is based on the Lemania 5100. The automatic chronograph places elapsed minutes on a central hand rather than relying only on a small subdial, alongside day and date indications and a 24-hour display at 12 o’clock. Fratello notes that the movement also powered the Speedmaster Mark IV, Mark V and other variations. Omega used the ref. 1450 bracelet around this period, though a bracelet’s presence or fit on a particular watch should be assessed individually.
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- Model 310.30.42.50.01.002
This arrangement is the key distinction from the familiar hand-wound Moonwatch layout: the case evokes that design, while the movement and dial prioritize an automatic chronograph with additional calendar and 24-hour information.
How rare is reference ST 376.0822?
Dr. Crott’s catalogue says “supposedly” 2,000 examples were produced over two years. That is an auction-catalogue claim, not an Omega-confirmed production figure; no primary production ledger is established here. Treat the number as an attributed estimate rather than a definitive count.
Rank #2
- Stainless steel case
- Black dial
- Swiss-automatic movement
- Case diameter: 40mm
- Water resistant to 330 feet
How can you assess originality on an example?
Do not rely on the reference number, a published photograph or a general description alone. Fratello explains that an image in Omega’s A Journey Through Time showed a prototype with an incorrect hand set, and that service or replacement components have complicated identification. Even access to Omega’s archives did not make this reference straightforward to document.
Check the bezel carefully
Dr. Crott’s catalogue distinguishes the original B2 bezel from the replacement B4 bezel by the shape of the numeral “7”: the B2 has a serif, while the B4 does not. The catalogue says many examples on the market are variations from the original configuration. This is a catalogue-specific identification point, so it should be considered alongside the actual watch and its history rather than treated as conclusive on its own.
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Rank #3
- Model 310.32.42.50.01.001
Evaluate the whole watch and its records
- Hands and bezel: Compare their configuration and visible details with reliable reference material, and ask whether any parts were replaced during service.
- Provenance and service history: Seek records that identify work performed and parts changed; an undocumented history leaves those questions open.
- Case condition: Inspect edges and surfaces for polishing or other condition issues.
- Completeness: Box, papers or an Omega Extract may add documentation, but none alone proves that every component is original.
A Wind Vintage listing published December 4, 2023 described one example as lightly polished, with unknown service history, and accompanied by a box and Omega Extract. Those details apply only to that historical listing; they do not establish the condition, availability or value of other examples. Wind Vintage
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should a buyer conclude?
The 376.0822 earns its nickname through a distinctive combination of Moonwatch-style case design, an automatic caliber 1045 and a highly functional display, as well as the collector story attached to Chuck Maddox. But a rare-reference label does not settle originality. Evaluate each watch component by component, give appropriate weight to provenance and service records, and treat production totals and catalogue descriptions according to their source.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Rubber
- Rotating bezel, gmt
- Automatic-self-wind movement
- Case diameter: 40mm
- Water resistant to 330 feet
Rank #4
- OMEGA Speedmaster Racing Chronograph 326.30.40.50.01.001
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