I don't know what $1000 buys today, but it sounds like enough to buy something significant. When I went through a similar exercise a few years ago I went for a Leica M, based on the assumption that they're likely to be last mechanical cameras were service is available (admittedly - at a cost).
I think Leicas are neat and I do enjoy working with them but they are far too expensive.
They may not be the prettiest thing on the street but my little Argus C3 brick will still be taking great pictures long after that M is dead and gone. And even I can tear it down and service it when I need.