Ken - Maybe you can do some digging around and see who we can complain (and loudly) to about this non consistent treatment in oneworld. And yes you are right - after sneaking a peek at my travel agent's CRS, after inserting CP's number, a message comes back confirming emerald status. It's either EMD or EMR depending on airline. All oneworld carriers return this message with the sole exception of Cathay Pacific. But apparently, that message only shows up on their computer.

In the incident above, I know CX has my CPlus number because only Sapphires and Emeralds can have advance seat selection done. And the bulkhead seats (as I have requested with them) are reserved for their 'priveleged' members. But I was quite honestly, astonished at their very quick change of heart when I flashed my CX card. I should have shown both and asked them to take a pick!