Interesting! I was so focused on doing a mini-rtw that I forgot about doing two one-ways. (We ruled out the mini-rtw as we much prefer to spend time at destination).

I could get the Amex Platinum with 60k MR for 700 $. I am OK with the idea of paying 350 $ per ticket if that gets me JC. However, it does not guarantee that J/C seats will become available... Kind of a catch 22 thing.

Thanks for the reply!