Not directed at you tazman, just a general reply because you brought up the point.
The $2K-$3K (and up to $6K) pistols aren't for accuracy or reliability - they are for the guy who wants something totally refined, with all the details addressed. If all I wanted was accuracy, I'd pick up a Springfield Loaded pistol and be done. I do however like French Borders, 30LPI Checkering, Staggered Arrow Top of Slide Treatment, all machined ignition components, etc.
The OP didn't even ask abut accuracy, and although it is a part of it, the worth of a semi or full blown custom is in the attention to detail. I kind of laugh at some of the comments - "I'd never buy a pistol that expensive", followed by the comment "I have 14 1911's and they all work great". I am sure they do, but I'd rather put all that $$ together and get what I really wanted in a pistol. For some, 14 box stock pistols is what they want, for others it is something else all together. Different strokes for different folks.
I will have my buddy Jason build me one like this some day, on an original 70 Series...and yes, I will carry it and shoot the **** out of it.