American Express Centurion Card aka “The Black Card”
“Black card. Black card. Girl I got a black card. Can I buy some of your time and charge it to my black card?” These days it is not uncommon to hear lyrics from rappers, 
like the one by Lil’ Wayne, and other singers talking about their “black card” as a status symbol. The “black card” has made many cameos and star appearances on TV shows as well. So what is a “black card” anyway?
It all started back in the late 80's with the introduction of a limitless, black charge card offered by American Express. The privileges that this card provided were unlike any other credit card. It was said that only celebrities and the extremely wealthy possessed this particular card. It is apparent that American Express decided to take advantage of the hype surrounding this particular charge card. In 1999 American Express decided to create the Centurion Card. The card name, Centurion, is simply the American Express logo. The Centurion is the most prestigious and exclusive card offered by American Express. However, the card goes by a much simpler name, “the black card.”
So why is there so much talk about a simple credit card? Well, the black card is not just your ordinary credit card offering a few perks here and there. Aside from being the only credit card made out of titanium, the perks that come along with the black card are quite distinguished. Each cardholder has a personal concierge. In other words, American Express dedicates one person to every Centurion cardholder. The cardholder is given the concierge’s direct phone number and email address. The personal concierge can do just about anything for the cardholder. He or she may get tickets to major sporting events, shows, or concerts that are said to be sold-out. Wait. That is just the beginning! A black card will get you numerous travel benefits. Access to airport clubs, first class upgrades, and a free companion flight ticket on international flights are the basics. The Centurion offers access into the American Airlines Admirals Club as well as enrollment in Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club Gold, Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Gold Medallion, Continental OnePass Gold Elite, and US Airways Dividend Miles Platinum Preferred. Hotel benefits are among the many luxurious amenities associated with the black card as well. Cardholders can enjoy a free night’s stay at almost any Mandarin Oriental Hotel each year and enjoy other exclusive benefits at many resorts and hotels around the world.
When it comes to shopping, there are many advantages to having a black card. Black card holders are automatically members of Sony’s Cierge personal shopping program. Also, cardholders receive exclusive benefits at Gucci, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Chopard, and several other fine retail stores worldwide. Cardholder’s will receive invitations to exclusive store events and access to many fine retail stores while they are closed to the general public. There are many other perks that come along with having a black card. Cardholders receive special offers on luxury cruises, a protection plan on many purchases, and worldwide roadside assistance. The magazine, “Black Ink” is sent to all cardholders as well.
It is important to note that the black card can be used for businesses as well as personal use.
So how can you get the American Express Centurion? Unfortunately, it’s not so simple. Not too long ago, the black card was available only by invitation. Nowadays, you can request the card. You must also meet certain criteria set by American Express. Those that qualify for the black card usually have excellent credit history and tremendous wealth. Not to mention, recent guidelines require that your purchases total at least $250,000 each year in order to have a black card in the United States. The annual fee was recently raised from $1,000 to $2,500. There is also an initiation fee of $5,000. The card’s limit depends on the individual’s credit history, spending habits, and most importantly, their financial assets. Purchases with the American Express Centurion in excess of $1 million are not uncommon.
If you are considering making that big purchase on your first private jet, then this may be just the card you need.
5-7-2012
by Chris Martin
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4-6-2012
by Dan Seitz
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12-5-2011
by Neil Hayashi
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