yes this is the logic. 

im in the same boat. 

the day you apply and app is approved is the day your member since 

i apped on 8/30 and my card says meber since august of '12

so when i app in jan '14 all my inq will be gone or about 1 1/2 years old and will fall off that summer. 

and when im approved it should say on the new card and cr's member since jan of '12

Current: EQ FICO 690, TU FICO 692, Walmart TU 737 EX FICO 726 Amex Pull(1/1/13) Starting total revolving credit: $2600 | Current total revolving credit: $21,600 Inquiries (12 Months): EQ 6 TU 4 EX 5 | Most Recent: 8/30/2012

2013 Goals: Freedom Signature Costco:True Earnings

Amex Zync(Unicorn) Chase Freedom$1500 Citizens Mastercard$5000