More than three years after Specter won a Listed race at Flemington, the grey gelding has broken through for another win.

The six-year-old scored the third win of his career and first since the Henry Bucks Stakes in September 2011 - 22 starts ago - when taking out Saturday's January Handicap (1400m).

The Lee and Anthony Freedman-trained runner dropped in class in his second start from a let-up and after getting cover midfield, apprentice Tom Sadler produced Specter in the clear early in the straight.

Specter ($13) hit the front 200m out and held a one-length advantage on the line over runner-up Gracious Prospect to snap his winless drought.

"He's obviously had his issues but back in grade today with the claim and with a good ride from Tom he got the job done," stable representative Steve Adams said.

Sadler said Specter was well placed.

"I thought today was his day. If he was going to improve and show anything like he has in the past, I thought he would do it today," Sadler said.

"And with the addition of the visor he really let down well."