The core difference is that the
scjd is pratical programming, the architect exam is a design/concept exam. I have worked for most of my time in configuration management so the developers exam was a real challenge to do so hands on programming again. The Architect exam on the other hand allows me to practice what I preach to the developers under me. Use
patterns, use the best tools for the job, use the most appropriate technology e.t.c. With of course a sun twist to the way the questions are asked, but give me Solaris, and cross platform open source and I'll be happy.
Sounds great coming from someone who got his mcsd before even starting to learn Java.