American Express Platinum Card

[jay-tay]

I have just applied and been approved for a Platinum American express card, however I am in two minds whether or not to sign the paperwork and get the card. The benefits do look great, however it's going to cost �275 to have the card, which seems a lot. However as it is a charge card I will not have to pay any interest on the money I spend, therefore I will be saving in that respect. Does anyone else have this card and would or would not recommend it ? Thanks.

[Oneeyedvic]

I have just had a preapproval for one of these.

As far as I can make out the only benefit is if you fly a lot - ie you get discounts on your flights etc and you also get to use some of the nicer airport lounges instead of hanging round with the riff raff. (can highly recommend - done it once on honeymoon)

If you also plan to use the conceirge service for sending flowers and the like, then I guess it is worth it. It also says that it will help you get tickets for events - that would be interesting.

 

Personally, I am not applying for it as I don't think it is worth the money. You will not be saving any money by having it as a charge card. Personally, I have credit cards which I pay of every month. This also gives me purchase protection (under consumer law) which the Amex card will not.

 

Hope this helps

[jake-the-peg]

I have held an American Express "Green" charge card for 15 years and their customer service is superb.

My wallet was lost in France last year, HSBC said I'd have a new card ready when I got home, Amex said they could have a new one available in Paris in 2 hours would I like it couriered to where I was?

The green card is thirty odd pounds a year - Personally I wouldn't touch a platinum card I reckon it just plays on people's vanity.

Up to you whether the platinum options are actually worth an additional �240 per year

[slimfandango]

Agree with jake, I think its just a vanity thing. My friend has one and likes the look he gets from hotel/shop staff when its pulled out. The benefits just don't match the price unless you fly a lot. If you fly two or three times a month in economy then access to a lounge is not to be sniffed at. I think there is travel insurance cover also?

[twiglet4frog]

Well worth �240 if u like women! i mean u only have to flash it under the noses of a few of these sexy footballer wives sorts and u get freebies all year long from them, You wouldnt get that sort of standard or service in a brothel now would u?

[Pinotage]

Ask yourself what you are buying for �275. With any ordinary credit card you don't pay interest if you pay in full each month. With Amex, you must pay in full each month.

Amex is not as widely accepted as VISA and Mastercard.

[Gef]

Why should you pay �275 to spend your own money? Chuck it in the bin.