You are fooling yoursef if you think that custom knives can't exceed $1,000. In fact, so of the nicest customs just get started at $1,000. Check out my collection, which includes many knives over $1,000:
http://real-reviews.com/gallery/
Granted, I doubt I'd be using anything over $1,000. My most expensive user is my G&G Hawk External Toggle for $650.