I remember 40 years ago when working first class on a VC10 I could only speak to the Capt through the Senior First Officer. "Would you ask the Capt if he would prefer Consome or the Cream of Chicken" back came the answer "chicken" Then came the Dulux colour chart to ensure the right shade of tea, all via the SFO of course.
One particular Captain used to put on white gloves and run his finger on every 1st class seat to make sure it was clean. If it wasn't he would delay the flight, call back the cleaners and bollock the cabin crew.
We were also told during training at Cranebank that Some Captains thought they were special because they were nearer God at Flt350!!
I could write a book about what used to go on in those days. Sadly some of my colleagues still say there is an element of this going on today.