I have a similar question. At end of this week I'll hit US Plat but am wondering if paying the $1000 to buy up to Chairman's is worth it to match to AA ExPlat.
I started a new position this May and fly once or twice a month domestically and flew Envoy to LHR once. I'm not sure what next year will bring but hoping to make a few more 1st class upgrades PHX-CLT.
$1000 is a bit to pay but if I can get some upgrades out of it then it might be worth it. Hard decision...