[Domo]

+1 on the Max Bill - although if Nomoses are too "austere" maybe they're a bit plain also?

The look you describe is very Orient, a Royal orient WE0031 has an adjusted, beautiful handwind movement, solid silver (Ag 925) case and can be had around $1200. Very unique and a something I'd love to own. 18mm lugs, 35mm case, 10mm thick, 41mm L2L.

WE0031EG?Royal Orient?????????????

Or available in very classy two-tone

WE0021EG?Royal Orient?????????????

 

[Domo]

I'm just gonna put this out there - Have you thought of a vintage Grand/King Seiko? They're right on your budget, many are hand-wind, small sizes, no-date/date/day/date options, absolutely gigantic box crystals...