My only problem with tiered PvP sets is that if you start even a week later than everyone else, you basically can't win until you've lost enough to pick up a basic set.

Id rather a tiered appearance on PvP sets, rather than tiered stats. Get a basic set, earn currency via PvP to make it look better. PvP needs to be about skill, not who had the most time to grind up the best set.