Springfield Loadeds sell for around 650...that leaves lots for extra mags, a trigger job and practice ammo.
S&W's 1911s are really nice, too.
Kimbers seem nice, but I have heard lots of reliability issues with the external extractor models. I have heard of no reliability issues with Springfields and they have a lifetime warranty and great customer service - thats worth something.
There were alot of grumblings about Sig's 1911s when they came out. Yes, I was surprised, too...because my Sig 220 is flawless, but their 1911s had reliability problems.
I, too are looking at a sub-1000 dollar 1911 to upgrade my SA GI 1911 (which has been a decent piece, BTW) and the Springfield Loaded model in black stinaless (very pretty...have you see one?) and the S&W 1911 are leading the pack. I am leaning Springfield, only due to my great experiences with their guns.
- Brickboy240