Words?
The last few replies have been entertaining. What exact words and attitude are you using when asking?
Swissair also told me that the total number of miles ever travelled counted for upgrade prioritization, and have upgraded me a number of times on really cheap fares. I don't know whether this applies to Swiss.
KLM used to have a card that gave automatic upgrades to First on request, meaning that if you asked, you got it. It was called the "Courtesy Card", and the upgrades only worked on return trips to Amsterdam, if seats were available. Had such a card, but I don't think it exists any more. Nor do they have First any more.
Never managed to get Lufthansa to upgrade me without charge, despite long-term Senator card. Still, the Senator card gives periodic free upgrade coupons anyway, without hitting FF miles.
Momo