American Express Membership Rewards - Centurion Fee - $2500 is it worth it?

Has anyone recently been accepted to Centurion (Black Card) status and not had to pay $2500?? I am trying to convince myself how to get comfortable with paying such a high fee (I thought $395 for Plat was too much). So id like to know if 1) is anyone getting lower annual fee offers and 2) how can you justify $2500??

how can you justify $2500??
CO/NW Gold
DL Gold
USAir Gold
SPG Plat.
HHonors Gold
IC Ambassador
Hyat Diamond
DL/CO/NW lounge access
If you use them enough . . . .

the search function works pretty well..

CO/NW Gold
DL Gold
USAir Gold
SPG Plat.
HHonors Gold
IC Ambassador
Hyat Diamond
DL/CO/NW lounge access
If you use them enough . . . .

im CO PLAT....about to be DL Gold...SPG PLAT...IC ABASS...have lounge access through Plat card....so I really dont see how this card is for travelers...because if you are a "traveler" like me you dont need to dish out $2500 for benefits you EARN from traveling....

(US scarways is bankrupt....Hilton uses too much plastic...so maybe im just missing Hyatt but id only stay at a Park Hyatt)

what else??

I'd say it's probably for people who like/want the benefits of higher-status frequent travelers, but may not necessarily travel enough (either collectively or on one airline) to actually earn that status.

Jeff

Myself, another guy, and a girl had the following conversation.

Girl: I'd really like to try restaurant X.

Guy: I'll call and see if we can get in

Me: I hear it's really packed there - kind of tough to get reservations on short notice.

Guy: I'll see what we can do - I can usually schmooze my way past reservations people.

Girl: That'd be great if you could...

Guy: <goes off to make a phone call, comes back two minutes later.> No, they could only seat us at 10:30, next weekend.

Me: Let me try. <Calls my personal Centurion Concierge, comes back 2 minutes later> OK. We're set for 8:30, table for 3.

Girl: Really? Wow! You're really good!

Guy: Grumble.


That, right there, made it worth it. :)

OK, that doesn't make it ENTIRELY worth it, but it certainly helps.

Myself, another guy, and a girl had the following conversation.

Girl: I'd really like to try restaurant X.

Guy: I'll call and see if we can get in

Me: I hear it's really packed there - kind of tough to get reservations on short notice.

Guy: I'll see what we can do - I can usually schmooze my way past reservations people.

Girl: That'd be great if you could...

Guy: <goes off to make a phone call, comes back two minutes later.> No, they could only seat us at 10:30, next weekend.

Me: Let me try. <Calls my personal Centurion Concierge, comes back 2 minutes later> OK. We're set for 8:30, table for 3.

Girl: Really? Wow! You're really good!

Guy: Grumble.


That, right there, made it worth it. :)

OK, that doesn't make it ENTIRELY worth it, but it certainly helps.

I like this episode BUT I think you get this same kind of Concierge service with the Platinum Card!!!!

I think the point of Centurion is this .... it's for people for whom $2,500 is less important than the 'money can't buy this' perks of the card.

There are a lot of people who earn enough not to notice another $2,500 disappearing from there bank accounts and would gladly love status in the hotel and airline programmes, plus the qudos of the restaurant reservations etc. After all, what's the point of having the cash if you can't show it off?!

What interests me most about Centurion is how you can spend $150,000 / £100,000 on your Amex card in the first place! I am well paid myself, probably a Centurion candidate based on income. I would probably apply for a card were they freely available with a $2,500 fee, because I could use the perks.

However, given that you cannot buy cars / kitchens / artwork at auction etc on your Amex (at least in the UK) I am amazed that anyone can hit these spend levels - and thus qualify for an invite - unless they have corporate cards. How my girlfriend and I could get through an average of £2,000 per week on my Amex, given we work full-time, is slightly beyond me. It's not about having the money to spend, its about having the time to spend it.

However, given that you cannot buy cars / kitchens / artwork at auction etc on your Amex (at least in the UK) I am amazed that anyone can hit these spend levels - and thus qualify for an invite - unless they have corporate cards. How my girlfriend and I could get through an average of £2,000 per week on my Amex, given we work full-time, is slightly beyond me. It's not about having the money to spend, its about having the time to spend it.
In the United States we can charge our income taxes. I don't know how many people do it, and I'm sure the number is reduced because you have to pay a fee to do it, but for people like me who don't have income taxes withheld from their paychecks and therefore have to pay quarterly estimated taxes, charging your taxes can really run up your American Express bill (or any other card, for that matter). I won't reach $150,000 this year, that's certain, but those quarterly payments (federal taxes and two states in my case) sure do add up. Makes you realize just how much of a bite they take, that's for sure.

So I suspect that tax payments have almost certainly helped some people qualify.

I'd say it's probably for people who like/want the benefits of higher-status frequent travelers, but may not necessarily travel enough (either collectively or on one airline) to actually earn that status.

Jeff

Precisely. This gives me the opportunity to fly who I want, when I want, and not constantly worry about requalifying.

So I suspect that tax payments have almost certainly helped some people qualify.

I'm sure. One thing Europeans often don't realize as well is that in the US, you can (and many people do) put nearly their whole lives on credit. $3 coffee? Amex. $7 lunch? Amex.

That said, I suspect many people who put the 150k+ a year on credit cards are doing a substantial amount of business-related travel which is reimbursed in one form or another.

I think Jerry Seinfeld summed it up best when he was on one of the morning shows a couple months ago promoting his Superman AMEX commercials. He was asked what color card he had. Jerry said "Black".

He was then asked what's the best thing about the "Black Card".

Jerry replied, "being able to say you have a Black Card".

I think the point of Centurion is this .... it's for people for whom $2,500 is less important than the 'money can't buy this' perks of the card.

There are a lot of people who earn enough not to notice another $2,500 disappearing from there bank accounts and would gladly love status in the hotel and airline programmes, plus the qudos of the restaurant reservations etc. After all, what's the point of having the cash if you can't show it off?!

What interests me most about Centurion is how you can spend $150,000 / £100,000 on your Amex card in the first place! I am well paid myself, probably a Centurion candidate based on income. I would probably apply for a card were they freely available with a $2,500 fee, because I could use the perks.

However, given that you cannot buy cars / kitchens / artwork at auction etc on your Amex (at least in the UK) I am amazed that anyone can hit these spend levels - and thus qualify for an invite - unless they have corporate cards. How my girlfriend and I could get through an average of £2,000 per week on my Amex, given we work full-time, is slightly beyond me. It's not about having the money to spend, its about having the time to spend it.

true but even the most rich people in the world think about what they waste money on im sure $2,500 towards a new Louis Vuitton bag is more appealing than a black card...or maybe its just $2500 for black card status....

true but even the most rich people in the world think about what they waste money on im sure $2,500 towards a new Louis Vuitton bag is more appealing than a black card...or maybe its just $2500 for black card status....

Ha! Funny you mention this. I saw an (american) guy unload a yacht-full of Louis Vitton bags in Portofino a few weeks ago. He then sat down at the restaurant we were at and paid with his Centurion.

He was definitely in the right place....

Ha! Funny you mention this. I saw an (american) guy unload a yacht-full of Louis Vitton bags in Portofino a few weeks ago. He then sat down at the restaurant we were at and paid with his Centurion.

He was definitely in the right place....


in portofino you need to pay any kind of food with a card because nobody can carry so much cash to pay cash :)
had coffee there lately for two and paid 36 euro (2 capucchino, 2 sparkling water)

in portofino you need to pay any kind of food with a card because nobody can carry so much cash to pay cash :)
had coffee there lately for two and paid 36 euro (2 capucchino, 2 sparkling water)

Ouch! :eek: And people say the Centurion is just a status symbol.. ;)

There was a recent article in a magazine (Forbes? Fortune? I forget) about the AMEX Centurion. The idea behind the article was how 10-15 years ago a Platinum card from any issuer was high class. Gold was becoming diluted by then. Now, Platinum is available to almost anyone.

But the AMEX Black is something, according to the article, that AMEX gets many requests for and summarily turns them down. Annual spending is one big criteria, but there are other factors that weren't mentioned too. It was funny reading about the level of begging and pleading people have done to get one of these for the sheer status.

Myself, another guy, and a girl had the following conversation.

Girl: I'd really like to try restaurant X.

Guy: I'll call and see if we can get in

Me: I hear it's really packed there - kind of tough to get reservations on short notice.

Guy: I'll see what we can do - I can usually schmooze my way past reservations people.

Girl: That'd be great if you could...

Guy: <goes off to make a phone call, comes back two minutes later.> No, they could only seat us at 10:30, next weekend.

Me: Let me try. <Calls my personal Centurion Concierge, comes back 2 minutes later> OK. We're set for 8:30, table for 3.

Girl: Really? Wow! You're really good!

Guy: Grumble.


That, right there, made it worth it. :)

OK, that doesn't make it ENTIRELY worth it, but it certainly helps.


I take it your are the guy quoted in Businessweek?

Nice article.

All the best, WT

I take it your are the guy quoted in Businessweek?

Nice article.

All the best, WT

That would be me.

:)

-Peter

Centurion Fee - $2500 is it worth it?

Of course it isn't, but you know you want one anyway. ;)

I'm not sure if $2500 is worth it. As much as I love my Centurion membership, that would be a tough decision. Thankfully, those of us who jumped in at the right time only pay $1000 per year. :)

I'm not sure if $2500 is worth it. As much as I love my Centurion membership, that would be a tough decision. Thankfully, those of us who jumped in at the right time only pay $1000 per year. :)

Don't rub it in. I missed the $1000 cut off by two months. :(

I have the Centurion card - the annual fee doesn't bother me to much. It's a status symbol and to my wife and I it's worth it. Most Americans put EVERYTHING on their cards. I know I do, it' just a habit. I made didn't have the Platinum card for very long before I got a phone call asking me to sign-up.

The discounted rates at Ritz-Carlton Hotels, and Four Seasons and the "your wish is our command service" also justifies the cost.

since I dont care for membership rewards...how about just getting the card then canceling it...so I have it to show off!!!!! HA...nice black cheap piece of plastic!!!

For those of you who do have the Centurion - how much had you been spending on average annually, and for how many years, before you got the invite? Is it really $150K or were there other factors (and what were they?).

$150,000 spent and I got the phone call. Although not necessary, I have kept up the spending criteria since receiving the card.

The best perk of the card is getting into any restaurant at any time in New York. Sometimes no amount of money can get that done!

What was the phone call like? I got a phone call from Amex that claimed it wasn't a sales call and it wasn't a security call, but after 4 minutes of trying to figure out what the call was about, heading down the freeway at 70 MPH in the middle of a conversation with a business associate, I finally hung up on them because I couldn't get a straight answer.

Wow... maybe I missed the call. Sheesh!

If it's really that important, call them, I am sure they have a record.

Jerry Seinfeld got it right. Take a Platinum card for $395 and for less than the $2100 difference you can pretty much have everything else on the list. Instead of getting that Hilton Gold upgrade for free, pay $60 a night for it, unless you spend 35+ nights a year there, it's cheaper. Plus, if you spend 35+ nights a year there, you get the upgrades for free anyhow.

If it's really that important, call them, I am sure they have a record.

Jerry Seinfeld got it right. Take a Platinum card for $395 and for less than the $2100 difference you can pretty much have everything else on the list. Instead of getting that Hilton Gold upgrade for free, pay $60 a night for it, unless you spend 35+ nights a year there, it's cheaper. Plus, if you spend 35+ nights a year there, you get the upgrades for free anyhow.

Where I would think it would make more of a difference was with the airline programs, where buying an upgrade isn't quite that cheap! Having gold status with Delta would certainly be cheaper than buying a few first class tickets.

Where I would think it would make more of a difference was with the airline programs, where buying an upgrade isn't quite that cheap! Having gold status with Delta would certainly be cheaper than buying a few first class tickets.

But aren't those who have a Centurion card also the ones who can afford to pay full fare F class and book the most expensive suites anyways (even if they didn't had the card) and don't care about saving money? There are some concierge services that charge $3000/year and provide much better service than American Express.

It seems to me that those who "want" the Centurion card for airline status, hotel status (for the upgrades / lounge access) are those whose spending is reimbursed by their employer (They wouldn't be able to charge so much if they aren't going to be reimbursed). These are the people who wouldn't fly first class unless they get upgraded, and wouldn't stay in suites unless they are upgraded.

But aren't those who have a Centurion card also the ones who can afford to pay full fare F class and book the most expensive suites anyways (even if they didn't had the card) and don't care about saving money? There are some concierge services that charge $3000/year and provide much better service than American Express.

It seems to me that those who "want" the Centurion card for airline status, hotel status (for the upgrades / lounge access) are those whose spending is reimbursed by their employer (They wouldn't be able to charge so much if they aren't going to be reimbursed). These are the people who wouldn't fly first class unless they get upgraded, and wouldn't stay in suites unless they are upgraded.

Uh.. Just because I have the ability to buy full F doesn't mean I'm going to do that if I can get there buying a Y ticket and getting a free upgrade.

Having the ability to buy full F tickets on the card != stupidly throwing money out the window :)

Ha! Funny you mention this. I saw an (american) guy unload a yacht-full of Louis Vitton bags in Portofino a few weeks ago.

Louis Vitton bags or luggage? Either way they are both junk...

Uh.. Just because I have the ability to buy full F doesn't mean I'm going to do that if I can get there buying a Y ticket and getting a free upgrade.

Having the ability to buy full F tickets on the card != stupidly throwing money out the window :)

Absolutely! I find that the reason one can actually afford to buy FC anything is typically because they continually spend the time to find ways to get FC for less or for free! ;)

I got it so I didn't have to spend a lot of time, money and energy maintaining elite status with any one airline. Plus I like to flash it.

QL

I think the point of Centurion is this .... it's for people for whom $2,500 is less important than the 'money can't buy this' perks of the card.

There are a lot of people who earn enough not to notice another $2,500 disappearing from there bank accounts and would gladly love status in the hotel and airline programmes, plus the qudos of the restaurant reservations etc. After all, what's the point of having the cash if you can't show it off?!

What interests me most about Centurion is how you can spend $150,000 / £100,000 on your Amex card in the first place! I am well paid myself, probably a Centurion candidate based on income. I would probably apply for a card were they freely available with a $2,500 fee, because I could use the perks.

However, given that you cannot buy cars / kitchens / artwork at auction etc on your Amex (at least in the UK) I am amazed that anyone can hit these spend levels - and thus qualify for an invite - unless they have corporate cards. How my girlfriend and I could get through an average of £2,000 per week on my Amex, given we work full-time, is slightly beyond me. It's not about having the money to spend, its about having the time to spend it.

RJB, if you are based in the UK the fee is £600 (possibly £650). I am not sure how I got the offer as my spending was reasonably high £80-100k but the letter in the post came very soon after I bought a rolex in Geneva on behalf of somebody else on my AMEX plat, maybe just a coincidence but I found it notable. As it happens I have found the concierge awful the three times I have tried to use it for tickets for events, touts +25%. I haven't had the chance to try the restaurants etc.

I haven't had the chance to try the restaurants etc.

In theory, Amex has a reserved table at a number of leading restaurants, which I assume is released to the public if Amex don't take it within, say, 12 hours of the reservation. I assume Amex pays a fee to the restaurants for this privilege, as most could sell the table themselves without the hassle of dealing with Amex every day.

There are some good names on this list - Ramsay at Claridges, The Square, Momo, Hakkasan, Le Gavroche. However, you don't need to be a Cent to take advantage of this - it is also for Plat cardholders in the UK.

OT - £650 for the UK fee is good value. You can get this back in one go by using the SPG Platinum card, which lets you book the cheapest room in the hotel and get upgraded to a suite, if available.

Having turned it down for $1000 annual fee, the $2500 is surely not worth it to me! ;)

Yet admittedly, had I known the price would rise so rapidly and steeply, I might have jumped at it! :D

Go figure! :)

-Mark

Is it worth $2500? Maybe...

-A big benefit not mentioned yet is the free night once per year at each Mandarin Oriental. That has already paid for my fee this year.

-The airline perks are more than just status...it's having guaranteed status the next year. It gives me the freedom to choose whoever among CO/NW/DL/US/UA is cheapest or has the best schedule without worrying about EQMs, etc.

-My wife likes the shopping benefits too (Escada, Saks, Bergdorf, etc.)

-Hertz perks are nice too

Has anyone recently been accepted to Centurion (Black Card) status and not had to pay $2500?? I am trying to convince myself how to get comfortable with paying such a high fee (I thought $395 for Plat was too much). So id like to know if 1) is anyone getting lower annual fee offers and 2) how can you justify $2500??


I think that 2.500,-- USD is really too much for a credit card. The most functions of that card are also included in the platinum or the gold level.

I think that much amount only having one person in call-center that is helping you to buy something is a too high amount. All the travel service are offered not to make good service but to get a high commission on the booked tickets.

The other only advantage is having a black card but I think due to security reasons it is very risky to take such a hint to a high income with you. And it's really silly when you compare the production cost of a credit card much lower than TWO US Dollars.

That would be me.

:)

-Peter


Glad to see I was correct. All the best.

I'll take Flyertalkers in the Press for $200, Alex.....

I think that 2.500,-- USD is really too much for a credit card.

The Centurion card is a charge card.

The most functions of that card are also included in the platinum or the gold level.

No. They are not.

The rest of this uninformed tirade snipped for the sake of brevity. :rolleyes:

As I've said in other threads, the true value for me isn't all the elite memberships, though they help a lot. The true value is that Amex gives me the time of day. In other words they are very responsive and professional. This was demonstrated again to me last night.

The day before I had made a booking through Amex for the Sheraton LHR. The hotel was sold out, but they got me in through the Platinum deal. Yet when I arrived at the hotel, they said my reservation was for the next day and they had no room for me. In fact, all of the hotels at Heathrow were sold out. They said the hotel was oversold by 10 rooms. I quickly called Centurion travel and they confirmed the booking and they confirmed the name of the man at the hotel who they called directly to make the booking. In the meantime I got the hotel manager who claimed that the booking was made at central Sheraton reservations in Cork.

The hotel manager said it was my agent's error and there was nothing they could do. But it turned out that the actual hotel revenue manager made the reservation and per Amex's policy he faxed the reservation to Amex. The Amex agent I was on the phone with called the original agent AT HER HOME, and she produced the fax in just a few minutes. She faxed it back to the hotel and they had to admit to their error.

Yes certain other travel agents may be very good, but do they have a large work force who keep track of all fax confirmations received from hotels and wake up those agents in time of need?

In the end they found a room for me and probably sent some poor ....... walking due to their error. But I would have been the poor ....... walking had I not paid $1000 for my Black card. You add this type of service to the great hotel and car rental comp deals (for US members anyway) and it's an easy decision to pay my annual fee.

When offered in a different country, the card is frequently offered at a considerably lower price. Does anyone know the cost of the card in Italy, where I could qualify?

I think most of the cards that run over $150k are being used for business expenses. I advertise in a magazine that costs over $6000 a month, and they accept AMEX. A lot of companies charge 3% or want guaranteed funds. If one is purchasing something for $5 or $10,000 it's really not worth the hassle of going to the bank, stand in line, get your guaranteed document then run and pay. Just charge it, get the points, and take a month to pay.

Lot of small purchases $500 to 1000 will take a card if we are not net 30. Few of these each week, and they add up also.

I think most of the cards that run over $150k are being used for business expenses.

True. I dare to say most Centurion holders aquired their cards in this manner.

Funnelling business expenses through the card is the easiest way to aquire the card; especially if you purchase and resell in bulk.

Most people who see the card think the person holding it run over $100k a
year in personals.

True. I dare to say most Centurion holders aquired their cards in this manner.

Funnelling business expenses through the card is the easiest way to aquire the card; especially if you purchase and resell in bulk.

I don't think so and that certainly isn't the case with me. I don't buy in bulk or anything like that. While most of my Amex tab is picked up by the company, they are all travel expenses purely for myself.

I know plenty of people who spend millions on their Amex Plat for company purchases and they were not offered Centurion. I think Amex tried (at least at first) to find the high flyers. The people who bought first and biz tickets and traveled the world. Those are the people that the sponsors (SPG, CO, Hyatt, DL, Avis, etc), want to capture.

I don't think so and that certainly isn't the case with me. I don't buy in bulk or anything like that. While most of my Amex tab is picked up by the company, they are all travel expenses purely for myself.

I know plenty of people who spend millions on their Amex Plat for company purchases and they were not offered Centurion. I think Amex tried (at least at first) to find the high flyers. The people who bought first and biz tickets and traveled the world. Those are the people that the sponsors (SPG, CO, Hyatt, DL, Avis, etc), want to capture.

True... I failed to mention travel related expenses.

With that said, people charging millions on their Plat. card would have no problem calling and obtaining the card on their own.

It must be nice to work for a company who foots enough travel expenses to afford the person a Centurion ;)

When offered in a different country, the card is frequently offered at a considerably lower price. Does anyone know the cost of the card in Italy, where I could qualify?

It's not offered in Italy. I believe only the UK, Germany and Switzerland in Europe.

The Centurion card is a charge card.
The rest of this uninformed tirade snipped for the sake of brevity. :rolleyes:


No, it's not. I think you really don't know the distinction between a charge / direct debit and a credit card.

The European EC-card would be a charge and direct debit card because of the fact nearly all transactions are booked at the account within normally 1 or 2 days. The Amex Card book on a credit card account and the monthly balance is deducted from your personal account (Girokonto).

And I am still convinced that the 2.500,-- US Dollar fee is throwing out money. Most of the advantages (maybe except that restaurant reservation) are offered by airlines and hotel chains even when staying often but having the "normal" Amex card !

And I just didn't to make an uninformed tirade but help people not throwing out one's money only for making that conspicious consumption. If one has really has that money too much I just recommend to visit the (in my opinion) most interesting city and hotel in the world in Shanghai.....

And I myself knowing the self-costs of such service due to the planned introduction of customer cards for a corporation (not a bank). Most of the "premium" service are very low cost for the offering corporation but are important to the self-confidence of the holders bringing higher brand loyalty, more often use of the card and finally the customer is becoming totally convinced not able to live without that really good and exclusive card. So I have cost-knowledge and I am not making un "informed tirade" but an informed hint for and not against you.

So I think if someone wants to have a luxury card, the gold or the seldom Platinum card is more than enough. Using the rest of the saved difference for having a holiday.....

gum

And I am still convinced that the 2.500,-- US Dollar fee is throwing out money. Most of the advantages (maybe except that restaurant reservation) are offered by airlines and hotel chains even when staying often but having the "normal" Amex card !



I wouldnt make generalizations like this...they discredit your point of view. How do you know that this card doesnt pay for itself and more due to its *unique* benefits for EVERYONE?

-The MO buy 1, get 1 free is not on rack rates...it's often on the lowest rate available and has saved me mucho $$$ (thousands) this year. I cant find that on any other card.

-The fact that I have 3 (actually 5+...CO/NW, DL, US/UA, *Alliance Gold) airline status arrangements has saved me more than $5,000 this year. Having just one is meaningless for saving $$$. Having 5 gives me the flexibility to choose the lowest fare and still retain status.

I could go on (especially about the shopping benes), but I wont

I wouldnt make generalizations like this...they discredit your point of view. How do you know that this card doesnt pay for itself and more due to its *unique* benefits for EVERYONE?


And that's a key point. Look, it comes down to what works for YOU.

My time is valuable, and I'm the first to admit that I live an incredibly busy life. That said, let's say I look at my palm pilot first thing in the morning, and notice that it's someone's birthday. I have two options:

1) I can search for their address, call up a florist, send flowers, get out my credit card, pay for it, hope it gets there.

2) I can email a list of important people/birthdays to my personal concierge sometime during the year, and sit back and get the nice voice mail or email from my friend/business associate when my gift arrives, without my having to do anything.

End result from option 2: I look good, client/friend/business associate is happy, and it didn't cut into my time. In fact, it makes people wonder "how does he remember all these things and manage to do it with his busy schedule?

This, to me, is worth the cost of the card alone.

In addition, the upgrades/bonuses etc. that come with the card are just as nice.

Finally, I've gotten some business out of using the card - I was interviewed for an article in Business Week about my card - got two perspective clients out of it - I run a PR firm - they figured that if I could get myself into Business Week, I could get my clients in, as well.

Cheers,

-Peter

-The fact that I have 3 (actually 5+...CO/NW, DL, US/UA, *Alliance Gold)

Centurion gives status on United airlines? I just got my card and there's no mention of UA (other than a points transfer relationship through Air Canada, but no mention of status)...

Centurion gives status on United airlines? I just got my card and there's no mention of UA (other than a points transfer relationship through Air Canada, but no mention of status)...

No...not NW either. But by association with CO and US, you get NW and UA benes. That is why I put the slash between them.

-DR

No kidding! I feel foolish (I'm usually up to date on airline benes! :)

I'll look for them online - any in particular that I'll enjoy?

NEVERMIND - for some reason I didn't know that US Air was in Star Alliance... Silly me...

Does that mean centurion gives top status on all star alliance carriers?

Curious...I have the Platinum IDC (International Dollar Card.) Does anyone know the "requirements" to get the Centurion IDC? Is it the same spending pattern as US? Are the benefits similar/generally worth it? Any input would be awesome..!!

Paul~

No kidding! I feel foolish (I'm usually up to date on airline benes! :)

I'll look for them online - any in particular that I'll enjoy?

NEVERMIND - for some reason I didn't know that US Air was in Star Alliance... Silly me...

Does that mean centurion gives top status on all star alliance carriers?


some of the benes:
-US Centurions get Star Alliance Gold status (go to * site for full details)

-NW, Unlimited upgrades (space avail.)

-UA, Auto-E+ at reservation. Discounted upgrades

So - help me here. I'm US Air Gold Elite. If I want to book with a different member of the Star Alliance, how do I do it and get Elite treatment? They site definitely agrees with you that I am considered Star Gold - just doesn't say how to take advantage of it.

Thanks!

So - help me here. I'm US Air Gold Elite. If I want to book with a different member of the Star Alliance, how do I do it and get Elite treatment? They site definitely agrees with you that I am considered Star Gold - just doesn't say how to take advantage of it.

Thanks!

I'd search the Star Alliance forum for more info, or if you are talking domestic, there should be discussions on the UA board, but when you make your reservation, they'll note your US AIR # in your PNR which will show up as *G on your boarding passes.

I got it so I didn't have to spend a lot of time, money and energy maintaining elite status with any one airline. Plus I like to flash it.

QL

How many average people working for retailers are going to know that the card you just handed over the counter is this ultra high status credit card? Most just ask for the card, swipe it, hand it back. There are so many credit cards out there these days they probably don't know or care what Centurion stands for. Is it really worth the status, or do you just enjoy the warm, fuzzy feeling you get from having a Centurion card in your wallet? Just my $0.02.

How many average people working for retailers are going to know that the card you just handed over the counter is this ultra high status credit card? Most just ask for the card, swipe it, hand it back. There are so many credit cards out there these days they probably don't know or care what Centurion stands for. Is it really worth the status, or do you just enjoy the warm, fuzzy feeling you get from having a Centurion card in your wallet? Just my $0.02.

More often than not when using the card, I get a (usually) amusing comment. People know. AmEx has done their PR work very well.

Will it make a difference at Wal Mart? No. Neiman Marcus? Very much so.

There are obviously enough people who think it's worth it or this thread would not be on its fourth page!

I may hit $75,000 in charges on my Platinum this year. About $15-$20K of it is on travel(hotel, airline, etc.). A lot on dining and merchandise. Any chance they would give me a Centurion if I call and request it after hitting that mark?

I may hit $75,000 in charges on my Platinum this year. About $15-$20K of it is on travel(hotel, airline, etc.). A lot on dining and merchandise. Any chance they would give me a Centurion if I call and request it after hitting that mark?

Stranger things have happened. It certainly can't hurt to try.

Won't happen. I called at around $115k in the past 12 months, with at least $50 of that travel expenses. I called back and got the card after I hit $160

Chris

I may hit $75,000 in charges on my Platinum this year. About $15-$20K of it is on travel(hotel, airline, etc.). A lot on dining and merchandise. Any chance they would give me a Centurion if I call and request it after hitting that mark?

Zero to none. Sorry :(

How much are you guys making annually to be able to afford $150,000 in annual charges? As a college student, maybe I should be rethinking my major :D.

CO/NW Gold
DL Gold
USAir Gold
SPG Plat.
HHonors Gold
IC Ambassador
Hyat Diamond
DL/CO/NW lounge access
If you use them enough . . . .

What do you mean it's "Airline Name Here" Gold?

I've had a Centurion card for 3 years at the $1K rate/year and feel that it is very much worth it. One example is a trip my girlfriend and I took to Spain where the upgrades were worth (at face value) almost $17K:

$10K: got 2 trans Atlantic upgrade certificates on USAirways for becoming a Gold Preferred (or whatever they call it), used it to upgrade my $500 economy tix to business class, which were going for about $5,500 each

$6,900: because of Starwood Platinum status granted via Centurion, was upgraded to a $1,400/night suite at the Palace Hotel in Madrid and the Alphonzo in Sevilla, paying $250/night for a difference of $1,150 x 6 nights.

My travel counselor works closely with my own assistant and always goes the extra step -- my company was using Carlson Wagonlit, which charged $30/call.

I haven't really taken advantage of the Concierge service but once I asked about the white truffle festivals in Piedmont and they were able to get me a fair amount of info (they faxed it).

On the status side, I've never noticed an improvement from clerks/hotel check in people, other than at Four Seasons or Ritz Carltons--technically, they don't upgrade you just by having a Centurion card (you are suppsed to book the reservation through Amex), but sometimes, I can get upgraded by asking -- however, its not clear that its because of the card.

I've had a Centurion card for 3 years at the $1K rate/year and feel that it is very much worth it. One example is a trip my girlfriend and I took to Spain where the upgrades were worth (at face value) almost $17K:

$10K: got 2 trans Atlantic upgrade certificates on USAirways for becoming a Gold Preferred (or whatever they call it), used it to upgrade my $500 economy tix to business class, which were going for about $5,500 each

$6,900: because of Starwood Platinum status granted via Centurion, was upgraded to a $1,400/night suite at the Palace Hotel in Madrid and the Alphonzo in Sevilla, paying $250/night for a difference of $1,150 x 6 nights.

My travel counselor works closely with my own assistant and always goes the extra step -- my company was using Carlson Wagonlit, which charged $30/call.

I haven't really taken advantage of the Concierge service but once I asked about the white truffle festivals in Piedmont and they were able to get me a fair amount of info (they faxed it).

On the status side, I've never noticed an improvement from clerks/hotel check in people, other than at Four Seasons or Ritz Carltons--technically, they don't upgrade you just by having a Centurion card (you are suppsed to book the reservation through Amex), but sometimes, I can get upgraded by asking -- however, its not clear that its because of the card.

Hmm, how did you get the 1K/year rate?

Hmm, how did you get the 1K/year rate?

The $1K per year is for charter members. After the word got out on the Black card, a bunch of whiny NY'ers all wanted the card and they ran up the support costs so Amex had to raise the annual fee. To Amex's credit, something I am very thankful for, they didn't raise the fee for anyone who already had the card.

To the whiny NY'ers who are offended by my words, tough noogies!

How much are you guys making annually to be able to afford $150,000 in annual charges? As a college student, maybe I should be rethinking my major :D.

I am a college student as well. I think a fair number of Centurion cardholders run up charges with business expenses that are reimbursed. I run my own business, and probably $60k of my annual charges are reimbursed expenses.

Chris

I am a college student as well. I think a fair number of Centurion cardholders run up charges with business expenses that are reimbursed. I run my own business, and probably $60k of my annual charges are reimbursed expenses.

Chris

Don't forget there are a lot of affluent people in the world, to which 150k in annual expense is really no big thing. Especially if you consider the amount of wealth created during the .com days.

The $1K per year is for charter members. After the word got out on the Black card, a bunch of whiny NY'ers all wanted the card and they ran up the support costs so Amex had to raise the annual fee. To Amex's credit, something I am very thankful for, they didn't raise the fee for anyone who already had the card.

To the whiny NY'ers who are offended by my words, tough noogies!

I don't think it had anything to do with support costs rather than a really, really smart marketing strategy. Give it to a select few at a (then unheard of) $1000 a year. Judge demand. Then, make it even more "exclusive" by going to $2500 a year. I bet 90% of those that wanted it at $1000 a year went for it at $2500 a year.

Don't forget there are a lot of affluent people in the world, to which 150k in annual expense is really no big thing. Especially if you consider the amount of wealth created during the .com days.

$150k / £100k of annual expenses = easy. $150k of Amex-able personal expenses (ie not reimbursable business charges) = difficult, even if you're on $1m pa. At least, it is until your staff, childrens schools, car dealer, UK tax man, auction house etc start taking Amex.

Why not just get rid of the anomaly? If people want to pay the card and value the benefits that much, then let them have one. Of course, this would take all the mystique / fun away .....

Don't forget there are a lot of affluent people in the world, to which 150k in annual expense is really no big thing. Especially if you consider the amount of wealth created during the .com days.

I've got no doubt that many Centurion cardholders spend well over 150k/year themselves. The possibility I presented was just one I know to be true, as I fit into it ;)

Chris

What do you mean it's "Airline Name Here" Gold?

anyone wanna explain this? :)

anyone wanna explain this? :)

Gold Status with participating airlines. You normally have to fly ~50k miles or 50 segments to get to this status. It allows you privileges such as priority boarding, upgrades when available, etc. FlyerTalk - for frequent flyers.

Chris

Hmm, how did you get the 1K/year rate?

I guess I just made it under their cut off date. My friend was offered one about 2 months later but at the higher rate. He decided not to get the card.

How much are you guys making annually to be able to afford $150,000 in annual charges? As a college student, maybe I should be rethinking my major :D.
I'm not going to make it to $150,000 in charges unless I do some heavy business travel in the next few months using my Corporate Card, but my total has been run up substantially by charging my quarterly estimated tax payments. The IRS considers me self-employed (I'm a partner at a law firm), so no taxes are withheld from my paycheck. Between the federal income taxes, federal self-employment taxes, etc., and state income taxes in two states (we have a New York office so I owe New York tax), I can get fairly close to half of the Centurion threshold just by paying my taxes! Ouch! BTW, I majored in history.

My understanding is that it's $150,000 on ALL your American Express cards, not just your personal card, correct?

My understanding is that it's $150,000 on ALL your American Express cards, not just your personal card, correct?

Sorry, it's $150K on your personal Platinum card. Or your corporate Platinum if you want a Corporate Centurion.

Nope, not true. It is 150k on any of your personal cards. I went from Gold to Centurion. Either way, you don't have to worry about coming close. Corporate Centurion requires $250k/year.

Chris

The key word is "personal" credit cards. Not a combination of personal and business cards.

Either way, you don't have to worry about coming close. Corporate Centurion requires $250k/year.

Chris

Completely false.

anyone wanna explain this? :)

You get mid-tier status with Continental, Delta and US-Air. Through global alliances, you get get equivalent status with many more international carriers, ie. all Star Alliance and Sky Team airlines.

New question - I've had the card for four months and have gotten my money's worth already from upgrades on airlines and hotels. Like many of the posters, I would not have qualified if I didn't use the card for business expenses.

I figure that I have 8-10 years before I retire and my credit card spending goes down significantly. Obviously, that will also be the time that I start travelling even more (and would covet those upgrades). My question - as long as I'm willing to continue paying the annual fee, do you think AMEX would pull the card if spending goes below their Centurion threshhold?

New question - I've had the card for four months and have gotten my money's worth already from upgrades on airlines and hotels. Like many of the posters, I would not have qualified if I didn't use the card for business expenses.

I figure that I have 8-10 years before I retire and my credit card spending goes down significantly. Obviously, that will also be the time that I start travelling even more (and would covet those upgrades). My question - as long as I'm willing to continue paying the annual fee, do you think AMEX would pull the card if spending goes below their Centurion threshhold?
It's been said here quite a bit, I think - Once you have the card, it doesn't matter what your spending is - they don't take it away if you fall below $150k.

-Peter

Duplicate response, sorry

Completely false.

If you're sure, then I apologise for the misinformation. The only guy I know with a Corp Centurion assured me that it was a $250k spending threshold. I have no interest in the corp card, so I never verified it.

Chris

If you're sure, then I apologise for the misinformation. The only guy I know with a Corp Centurion assured me that it was a $250k spending threshold. I have no interest in the corp card, so I never verified it.

Chris

Yes, sure, as I carry one :)

The key word is "personal" credit cards. Not a combination of personal and business cards.Hmm, interesting. So are we talking ANY personal Amex--like if I start travelling on business more often, this would be a reason to get Blue or one of the other no-fee cards so that I could put business expenses on a personal card but still segregate them? (I have a corporate Amex but don't have to use it, but I definitely prefer being able to segregate business expenses on a different card from personal expenses.) I know people like the Starwood card or the SkyMiles card, but I'm not going to pay an annual fee for a card I use solely for business!

There's a lot of hearsay about these cards, but I'm quite sure that when the Centurion program started, it was $150K on your one personal Platinum card. I know people who bypassed this spec later on as Amex succumbed to some big shots demanding the card even though they never had Platinum. But I think that is still the basic requirement. YMMV.

I was told by the rep that it was spending on any combination of personal American Express cards. Invites are sent out to high-spending Platinum cardholders, as they are the typical market. Regardless, now, to them, $150k is $150k.

Chris

Curious...I have the Platinum IDC (International Dollar Card.) Does anyone know the "requirements" to get the Centurion IDC? Is it the same spending pattern as US? Are the benefits similar/generally worth it? Any input would be awesome..!!

Paul~


Paul,

I recently received the Centurion IDC, having received an invitation this summer. I did not request the invitation.

I had held a Platinum IDC for perhaps 5+ years. My spending was not at the level that has been mentioned for the US Centurion, but I consistently spent a few thousand dollars a month, more or less, for the past few years, with sporadic months at $10-15,000.

I don't know if it was related, but the invitation came immediately following 3-4 months of spending $5-10,000 per month, including a vacation with airline tickets charged, 20 nights of hotels, meals, etc., plus around $1,800 for a Nikon digital camera with accessories. I mention this only because someone else referred to an invitation being generated after a single large purchase, as well as based on showing travel-related spending.

The fee for the Centurion IDC is $1,000 which I still haven't decided is worth it, but will assess during this first year. No airline elite programs, but you get two Priority Pass memberships (for you and a supplemental Centurion card holder). You can have actually three Centurion cards for that -- your personal card, one for another card holder, and a business card. Plus up to 4 additional cards in Platinum, Gold or any other color.

You get Starwood Platinum, the Mandarin hotel free nights as mentioned previously, the FHR, etc.

If you do a search on Centurion and the author RichardMannion, he has written a few comprehensive posts about the UK-based Centurion benefits which covers the IDC card.

Susan

Nope, not true. It is 150k on any of your personal cards. I went from Gold to Centurion. Either way, you don't have to worry about coming close. Corporate Centurion requires $250k/year.

Chris

Corporate Centurion is also $150k a year. Not $250k.

Corporate Centurion is also $150k a year. Not $250k.

Yup, that was cleared up. My mistake - looks like my buddy was all talk talk talk with that.

Chris

And that's a key point. Look, it comes down to what works for YOU.

My time is valuable, and I'm the first to admit that I live an incredibly busy life. That said, let's say I look at my palm pilot first thing in the morning, and notice that it's someone's birthday. I have two options:

1) I can search for their address, call up a florist, send flowers, get out my credit card, pay for it, hope it gets there.

2) I can email a list of important people/birthdays to my personal concierge sometime during the year, and sit back and get the nice voice mail or email from my friend/business associate when my gift arrives, without my having to do anything.

End result from option 2: I look good, client/friend/business associate is happy, and it didn't cut into my time. In fact, it makes people wonder "how does he remember all these things and manage to do it with his busy schedule?



WOW! Now I wish I hadn't turned down the invite!

And that's a key point. Look, it comes down to what works for YOU.

My time is valuable, and I'm the first to admit that I live an incredibly busy life. That said, let's say I look at my palm pilot first thing in the morning, and notice that it's someone's birthday. I have two options:

1) I can search for their address, call up a florist, send flowers, get out my credit card, pay for it, hope it gets there.

2) I can email a list of important people/birthdays to my personal concierge sometime during the year, and sit back and get the nice voice mail or email from my friend/business associate when my gift arrives, without my having to do anything.

End result from option 2: I look good, client/friend/business associate is happy, and it didn't cut into my time. In fact, it makes people wonder "how does he remember all these things and manage to do it with his busy schedule?



Option 3 - get personal secretary to handle such - it is a lot easier than option 2 - you needn't even produce any list or email - just pick up the intercom. She compiles the list, with updating and annotations. She knows your preferences, friends, etc a lot better than one of many concierges at Centurion. You will be able to have a lot more options (if you desire to choose). It is especially better if the secretary has been working you for years. This is what I do and I believe many people with Centurion cards do the same thing.

Option 3 - get personal secretary to handle such - it is a lot easier than option 2 - you needn't even produce any list or email - just pick up the intercom. She compiles the list, with updating and annotations. She knows your preferences, friends, etc a lot better than one of many concierges at Centurion. You will be able to have a lot more options (if you desire to choose). It is especially better if the secretary has been work you for years. This is what I do and I believe many people with Centurion cards do the same thing.

Last I checked a "personal secretary" can't be had for anywhere close to $2500 a year....which also pays for elite memberships, etc.

And that's a key point. Look, it comes down to what works for YOU.

My time is valuable, and I'm the first to admit that I live an incredibly busy life. That said, let's say I look at my palm pilot first thing in the morning, and notice that it's someone's birthday. I have two options:

1) I can search for their address, call up a florist, send flowers, get out my credit card, pay for it, hope it gets there.

2) I can email a list of important people/birthdays to my personal concierge sometime during the year, and sit back and get the nice voice mail or email from my friend/business associate when my gift arrives, without my having to do anything.

End result from option 2: I look good, client/friend/business associate is happy, and it didn't cut into my time. In fact, it makes people wonder "how does he remember all these things and manage to do it with his busy schedule?

This, to me, is worth the cost of the card alone.

In addition, the upgrades/bonuses etc. that come with the card are just as nice.

Finally, I've gotten some business out of using the card - I was interviewed for an article in Business Week about my card - got two perspective clients out of it - I run a PR firm - they figured that if I could get myself into Business Week, I could get my clients in, as well.

Cheers,

-Peter


What are "perspective clients"? ...

Perhaps clients who open your eyes a little :)

There's a lot of hearsay about these cards, but I'm quite sure that when the Centurion program started, it was $150K on your one personal Platinum card. I know people who bypassed this spec later on as Amex succumbed to some big shots demanding the card even though they never had Platinum. But I think that is still the basic requirement. YMMV.

There's basically 3 sets of things you will be told:

- If you talk to a non-Platinum, non-Centurion customer service, they will refer you to Platinum as the gatekeeper for Centurion.

- If you talk to Platinum, they will tell you that only Platinum spending qualifies, and won't really want to talk to you if you don't already have a Platinum card.

- If you talk directly to Centurion, then they'll tell that combined spending on all personal Amex products is fine (Platinum, Gold, Green, Optima, Starwood, Blue, whatever). The trick is that you have to have someone tell you about this (such as here on FlyerTalk) or figure it out on your own, because any inquiries through the regular channels will give out the "party line" about Platinum being required.

Yup, that was cleared up. My mistake - looks like my buddy was all talk talk talk with that.

Chris
I haven't posted here in a while so I may have missed something but in April/May of this year AMEX changed the spend for Centurion to 250K. Did they changed it back to 150? (I am thinking no).

Lol, I checked the date Sept. 04 hehe...nm.

If you do a search on Centurion and the author RichardMannion, he has written a few comprehensive posts about the UK-based Centurion benefits which covers the IDC card.

Susan

Thanks Susan!

One item to note is that as far as I know, IDC does not follow the qualification criterion that is used in the US (i.e the $150/250k thresholds) - it follows the more unknown UK criterion. The example that Susan gave of being a long tenured customer with healthy spend hitting 5 figures once in a while will definitely help.

Thanks,
Richard

A few comments to some posts along the way from a US Cent holder:

I snuck in at the $1000/yr annual fee, six months later they raised it to $2500, I remember getting a letter from Amex saying "We appreciate you recommending your friends to the Card, but be aware that..." The card has stayed at $1000 for me, plus $500 for each additional cardholder on the account.

My wife and I made the $150k mark through a crapload of personal purchases (it was the crazy dot-com days) and business travel, but embarrassingly enough, mostly personal purchases. The years following that $150k year our tab has been more like $95k a year and since getting divorced, I toll maybe $70k solo, mixed business/personal usage. Once you make the cut, you keep the card. We used to joke that whoever issued us the card probably lost their job. We have 800+ credit and lots of paid assets, but never made the $150k again.

Having said that, I'm pretty loyal to Amex and I do tend to use it for anything over $20 in price. I'll pay cash for <$20, but that seems to be my habit.

I rarely use any of the services that require calling in; I keep it almost completely for the status in the airlines and hotels. I don't travel as much as I used to and it tends to be across different airlines, but in my last 16 Delta segments I've flown, 14 have been upgraded for free. Can't beat that. They also had fantastic deals at the Bellagio in LV, too, better than anywhere else I've ever heard.

I don't have the card for any sort of "exclusive" sort of look, if they offered it in green I'd take it. Every time I hand it to some sketchy merchant I'm always wondering if I'm going to be a identity theft target or I'm going to find a ton of unauthorized charges on my bill next month. I think my (ex)wife secretly liked the whole "black card" appeal, mostly with snooty merchants and hotels.

I wouldn't pay $2500 for it, but $1k just squeezes into my ability to rationalize it.

Louis Vitton bags or luggage? Either way they are both junk...

My Epi carry-on has gone round the world many times - with nary a scratch. I wouldn't be caught dead with any LV logo handbags or luggage, but the Epi bags are nice & discreet.

Is it worth $2500? Maybe...

-A big benefit not mentioned yet is the free night once per year at each Mandarin Oriental. That has already paid for my fee this year.

-My wife likes the shopping benefits too (Escada, Saks, Bergdorf, etc.)



Ok, NOW you've got my interest - 1 night at each MO hotel per year or one night per year at A MO?

And, by far most importantly, what are the Escada benefits, as opposed to those you receive with Plat? Are the Neiman-Marcus bennies are different vs. Plat?

It is 1 free night per MO property per Calendar year - some blackout dates do apply. You need to book this via CTS via a qualifying rate.

Rate may not be the lowest but its not full rack rate- you will also get a category upgrade (subj to avail), breakfast for two each morning, late/early check-in/out and a welcome amenity at each property - it varies from afternoon tea for two once during your stay to lunch for two - check with CTS.

I made use of the benefit at the Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur properties in September - the free nights and benefits outweighed my annual fee in one go.

Thanks,
Richard

After reading this thread, and all of the diatribes by non-Centurion holders over whether or not the fee is worth it, I offer this:

So I decided to give the U.S. Centurion card a shot for one year, and then determine whether it was worth the $2500. For what its worth, my $150K spending was accumulated over two different cards (a Starwood Amex, and a Plat card). Once I got the phone call from AMEX, I received my cards three days later via Fedex.

After having the card for exactly one year, I received:

1) 32 upgrades to first class on Northwest Airlines, several times including my traveling companion. In fact, most recently, me and my traveling partner were upgraded to first class on all four legs of a Detroit-Aspen itinerary (via Minneapolis). I would never achieve Gold status simply based on my flying, so I consider this perk to be the single most valuable benefit of the Centurion card. It helps that I live in Detroit, and Northwest hubs here, of course. The value of these upgrades I got this year on Northwest is worth much more than the annual $2500 fee (if you value each upgrade at $200, which would be WAY cheap, thats worth $6400 right there). Not to mention the superior customer service at Northwest (via their special Gold customer service department), the expedited security lines, the free access to the NW Lounge, etc. All excellent.

2) Starwood Platinum - I thought this would be let-down, but in fact, it has been another valuable perk. Most recently, I spent the night in Los Angeles at the W on (or near) Wilshire Blvd. I booked the least expensive room for the night ($299), and was upgraded to a 4-room suite that had a rack rate of something like $1400/night. Similar upgrades occurred throughout the year at Starwood properties around the country. Value? Certainly at least a couple thousand.

3) We went to New York a few weeks ago for a three night stay at the Mandarin Oriental. We paid rack rate for a Central Park view room ($880 per night), and were upgraded (at time of booking, not arrival) to a Mandarin Executive Suite, plus we got the third night for free. The best advertised rate I could find for that suite for those dates was $1750 per night. So, at a minimum, we saved $3490 that weekend. Add to that the free breakfasts every day, the free lunch at Asiate, and the taxes saved, and it was a real $4000 savings for the weekend. Oh, and if you have not stayed at this hotel it is fantastic. Best hotel I have stayed at in NY. I hope to be able to take advantage of this perk at more than one MO property next year.

So, I figure that at a bare minimum, I realized a true $10,000 in value from the card (probably more like $20,000+, but lets be conservative). Will I be renewing? Of course. Its a SCREAMING BARGAIN.

Some other thoughts:

1) There were several other ancillary perks that I did not detail above - the Hertz Centurion rates (which I found to be pretty good), their concierge and travel services (see below), their Fine Hotels program perks, etc. None of these are particularly valuable by themselves, but certainly nice to have.

2) The concierge service is OK, not great. Though everyone is always talking about how great they are, I have had my fare share of mix-ups, unreturned phone calls, botched reservations, etc. I use them probably once per week, and mostly they do a good job, but I have never found them to be able to get a reservation at a restaurant when I was not able to get it by calling the restaurant directly. In short, they offer a convenience, but I have yet to see them offer any "access". I hope this changes.

3) Other services, such as the travel service, the private jet service, limo service are all convenient, but generally much higher priced than other options. In general I have never found the travel service to offer better pricing on any hotel than I can simply find elsewhere on the net. As for their private jet and car prices, forget it - they are way overpriced, in my experience.

4) I have never received one comment or one raised eyebrow from a merchant, or basically anyone over the last year from using the card. I think most people are oblivious, or simply do not care (which is great). I suppose in one high end shop I can recall the customer service getting a notch better after I paid with the card, but other than that, not much of a reaction from anyone. Fine with me.

5) I would guess, though I know its contrary to just about every opinion I read on this thread, that most Centurion card holders are not just mindless millionaires who would pay $2500 to carry the card simply for the status-factor. In fact, I know 5 other people who have it, and everyone is quite aware of the benefits, and use these benefits to justify the cost of the card. It kind of goes without saying, but you don't get rich throwing money away, and I would venture to guess that most Centurion card holders are fairly astute, and are not in the business of wasting money.

That's my experience of having the card for a year. I think its great. If you can get one, take it. If you don't have one, no big deal - its just a piece of plastic and won't make any difference in the things that really matter in life, so don't sweat it.

-N

Nick, it sounds like you are getting good use out of the card. Don't worry about the naysayers here. Most of us are like you and find the card to be well worth the cost. Also, after a while you will get to learn what Amex is good at and what they aren't good at. There are very few things that the Concierge is good at. For those few things, I am quite happy with them. For the other things I use alternative sources.

For me, the SPG Platinum is worth the entire $2500.

BTW, while I averaged $200K per year when I got the Black Card, last year my total Amex spending was less than $100K (British Airways Visa got the bulk of my spending in 2005). I was expecting to be dropped from the program but Amex renewed my Black card in September.

I later read on the sticky that once you are in, you are in as long as you continue to renew.

I think the point of Centurion is this .... it's for people for whom $2,500 is less important than the 'money can't buy this' perks of the card.

There are a lot of people who earn enough not to notice another $2,500 disappearing from there bank accounts and would gladly love status in the hotel and airline programmes, plus the qudos of the restaurant reservations etc. After all, what's the point of having the cash if you can't show it off?!

What interests me most about Centurion is how you can spend $150,000 / £100,000 on your Amex card in the first place! I am well paid myself, probably a Centurion candidate based on income. I would probably apply for a card were they freely available with a $2,500 fee, because I could use the perks.

However, given that you cannot buy cars / kitchens / artwork at auction etc on your Amex (at least in the UK) I am amazed that anyone can hit these spend levels - and thus qualify for an invite - unless they have corporate cards. How my girlfriend and I could get through an average of £2,000 per week on my Amex, given we work full-time, is slightly beyond me. It's not about having the money to spend, its about having the time to spend it.I've got a friend who travels almost every day of the week (as I'm sure some of you on this board do) for work. He's also a highly compensated executive in the financial industry, and entertains clients on most of those travels. He's EXP on AA, and flies in F everywhere he goes.

I can't even imagine what his bill looks like, but I have a feeling $150k per year wouldn't be too tough. And that's just one example. I come into contact with people in similar work to him who take out 20 people at a time for dinner at the finest restaurants in Chicago, NYC, LA, etc. Their companies pay it all, but they usually charge on their own AMEX.

There are very few things that the Concierge is good at. For those few things, I am quite happy with them. For the other things I use alternative sources.

What are the things the Concierge is good at, and what aren't they good at?

What are the things the Concierge is good at, and what aren't they good at?

They are not miracle workers
Here's an example: Say there's a restaurant where it is incredibly hard to get reservations (Per Se, French Laundry, Pierre Gagnaire) The concierge can't magically get you reservations a week to 10 days in advance (if all the tables are filled, they're filled) However-- if you request the reservation in advance (ahead of the time that the restaurant takes bookings-- usually 1 month or 2 months ahead) the concierge can swing it, saving you the "reservation dance" (Several years ago I remember setting my alarm clock for 6 am PT to make sure I snagged Nobu reservations) I believe that is a worthwhile service.

They also have some clout when it comes to amenities like early/late check-ins at Cent hotels, plus service may be better when Cent makes the reservation (ymmv)

Actually they can get you instant reservations at amazing restaurants. I don't know French Laundry, but many other fine restaurants have what they call the "Amex table". There is one of these every day. First come first serve. See more on the Centurion website.

What the US Centurion concierge is NOT good at IME is helping you with anything outside of the United States.

Actually they can get you instant reservations at amazing restaurants. I don't know French Laundry, but many other fine restaurants have what they call the "Amex table". There is one of these every day. First come first serve. See more on the Centurion website.

The only thing the Cent gets you at the French Laundry is the ability to spend way too much $$$ on wine. Getting a table? Better buddy up to the staff. :)

The only thing the Cent gets you at the French Laundry is the ability to spend way too much $$$ on wine. Getting a table? Better buddy up to the staff. :)

Fortunately I live in France and have access to far better restaurants for far less money. ;)

Option 3 - get personal secretary to handle such - it is a lot easier than option 2 - you needn't even produce any list or email - just pick up the intercom. She compiles the list, with updating and annotations. She knows your preferences, friends, etc a lot better than one of many concierges at Centurion. You will be able to have a lot more options (if you desire to choose). It is especially better if the secretary has been working you for years. This is what I do and I believe many people with Centurion cards do the same thing.

For those of us that live professional lives in Sin City, it is a delightful surprise when our secretary shows up to work, on time, every day, sober, and in the words of my former boss, not smelling like sponge. Managing an actual list of actual people's birthdays, and actually expecting that it would get taken care of without a FUBAR is totally beyond the scope of any professional's expectation in the 702 area code.

I just got a new name for the used boat I will buy


centurion x 2

;)