Sent Back the Pro-ject Turntable: What would be the best option in the $1800 range?

Comparing entry level 1500c to the truly high-end "G" make no sense.

The "G" has coreless motor, the best DD motor available today, just like the SP-10R. 

The 1500 does not even assembled in Japan

The GR is much closer to the G, the best choice if the G is too expensive, those models made in Japan. 

1200GR. 
Wasn’t sold on the looks at first but it’s a beast of a machine that will outlast me.

The Well Tempered Labs Simplex is a fine table.

Torque is not a big deal, once the turntable is up to speed, but the SL12010GR is just a much better product on all levels (motor, electronics, platter, plinth, etc), compared to the 1500.  I would add my voice to the chorus: go for the GR.

The 1500 is for noobs... the opener doesn't look like a noob