Getting around the Amex card fee when you join is pretty much impossible, but getting it refunded from the second year on is quite simple. You just have to have relevant use of the card, call them when the new annual fee is due and tell them you will close the account if they don't refund it. Works like clockwork. Given you like the 1 to 1 point thing and that the rest of the local plastic isn't appealing to you, seems like you and the wife are better served dumping all the rest of your local plastic and giving all the business to el Centurion......