I would have to say go for it. I'm glad that I have Silver Status on CO and will probably hit Gold this year. I've taken alot of trips from Tokyo to Guam/US on CO and it is a lifesaver. The biggest perks for me

1. Being able to use the Business First/Elite Access counters for check in
2. Elite boarding (allows you to get your carry on in the overhead first)
3. Priority handling of baggage (huge on intl trips that are several days)
4. Access to Premium seating in Economy (You are closer to the exit)

Alot of my trips have been 1,500 mile treks from Tokyo to Guam so it takes alot of trips to requalify Silver Elite. I can not imagine waiting in line behind all the Japanese leisure travelers When you make elite your card has a magnetic strip on the back which is handy for using the e-kiosks at the airport. It has served me well several times. The flights I take have a BF cabin so I do not play the EUA game or know how to play it.

Kampai,
Klaxon