I can't recall seeing a Nutmeg example under 3,000.00.
"All Colt" might be the most cost effective although going with Nutmeg or similar will likely get you upgraded grips, more engraving and an action job. I don't know about timing but such things are seldom for the patience impaired.
Of course, the action job is useless if you're not intending to ever shoot it.
objet d'art can have 20 pound triggers and not suffer for it.
One option you might want to explore is Doug Turnbull. I got one of his "classics" and from phone call to shipment was one day - he's selling USFAs but I found him easier to deal with and a lot faster.
Turnbull offers engraving. This would no doubt add to the time but I've no idea how much. My guess is it'd be pretty close to a nickeled Colt. If you went with case color and carbona blue a lot of people might assert that the Turnbull product is notably superior. If nothing else, the hammer isn't white.
They don't look too shabby.
Lotsa options:
http://www.turnbullrestoration.com/store.asp?pid=20523
Silver plated with fire blue accents? Hmmmm.
Turnbull doesn't charge extra for consecutive serial numbers. A minor point to consider if you're planning on using it for CAS as you'll need two.
Nothing more fun than spending other people's money. A matched pair of engraved six-shooters, next the leather. We should be able to get this to 7,500.00 without breaking a sweat.
