Originally Posted by
LeisureFirst
No, it becomes available at T-3d when they allocate seats to non-status baby-holders. However, since a phone call is required to book it and many Golds/Silvers don't know about this, there is normally a good chance of nabbing it if you're quick of the mark at T-24. In this particular case, however, as BA Loyal pointed out (and I have checked) it seems to actually be occupied.
You are quite right, however in the OP's case it will only be available to him (or not in this specific flight) at T-24.