No time to read the whole thread but here's my experience.

Just got back from RT NY to Tel Aviv via Heathrow in First Class. Three of the four flights were in the New First cabins. Amazing experience, especially if you like fine liquors and wines!

Used layover at the Concorde Lounge in Heathrow. We showered and changed, then twenty minutes in a massage chair to finish my rejuvenation. Love every minute of the experience.

Cost 195,000 miles and got two for one thanks to the Visa. Cost $1500 in fees which was about what one coach seat would cost. 200,000 free miles from BA thanks to my wife and I each getting the card. $30,000 is easy since I use it for business expenses. So it was a no-brainer in terms of getting the card. And, to me, a no-brainer in terms of keeping it.

Now things always change. It's not the same if you need it for Asia and the South Pacific. Nothing is best at everything. But we already have the points for our flights for a Baltic cruise next June - just waiting for the 11 month mark to get our seats. As long as BA keeps delivering this availability and the chance to get 2-4-1 and the redemption tables don't change much, I'll keep playing this game.