I am an Amex Platinum member for around 8 months now. I on track to easily spend over $50,000 this year on my card. So my average balance, obviously, is around $4-5,000.

I am very eager to get the Centurion card as the travel benefits (mainly CO Gold Elite) is a pain to qualify for every year. I already use most of the Platinum benefits religously.

I am wondering, I have seen alot of people here say they have Centurion cards and carry very low monthly charges. I just wanted to know how (invite? you asking for it?) you came across your Centurion card. Also were you one of the initial members?

I have called Amex a few times to ask about the Centurion card and they hold that the $150,000 a year spending is a strict qualifier.

Once my account matures to a year I am going to agressively petition Amex for the card. If that doresn't work I will let their cardmember loss prevention (or whatever they call it) department deal with me.

I like my Platinum card, but a President's Club membership would do just as well for me.

Please advise me on how you came across you Centurion cards and when. I would really appreciate the info so I know how to approach Amex.

Thanks.

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CO Silver