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I would have liked to take both archetypes for a magically inclined character that isn't a full-fledged caster. However they overlap in one area, both replace the rogue talent gained at 4th level. Which is the better option? I do plan on taking Minor and Major Magic, along with the Talented Magician feat.
Magical Expertise: add 1/2 level to Disable Device for disarming magical traps and UMD checks for scrolls and wands only. Replaces trap finding.
Signature Wand: At 4th level the rogue can attune himself to a specific wand for one hour, doing so the rogue can activate the wand without UMD. Replaces 4th level rogue talent.
Wand Adept: Dex instead of Cha for UMD on wands only.
Underground Chemist
Chemical Weapons: At 2nd, The rogue can retrieve alchemical items as if drawing a weapon. Add Int to damage dealt with alchemical items. Also add +1/2 level on craft (Alchemy) checks. This replaces Evasion.
Precise Splash Weapons: At 4th level, rogue can sneak attack with splash weapons. So long as its the first attack, must qualify normally for sneak attack (Like flat-footed), and you must target the creature not the square. Replaces 4th level rogue talent.
Discovery: At 10th level a rogue can select an alchemist discovery from the following: Concentrate Poison, Dilution, Enhance Potion, extend potion, mummification, nauseating flesh, poison conversion, preserve organs, spontaneous healing, sticky poison.
Treat your rogue level as your alchemist level. This alters the advanced talents.
I'd guess Underground Chemist is the better choice.
I think Counterfeit Mage is best if you are not specialized.
I'd go with a critical build to use Dispelling Strike!
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I would argue for Counterfeit Mage. The Chemist ability gives you a little to enhance splash weapons, but no class ability to create them like the alchemist has, so you're burning through your WBL pretty fast. None of the discoveries it gives access too look worthwhile either.
The Mage meanwhile is a beast at UMD, something rogues already get good mileage out of. Sure, they cost WBL too, but they're a LOT more versatile than "1d6 fire damage".
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Hmm mixed opinions. Though activating a wand without UMD from CM is much better than the critical on splash weapons from UC. At best UC is a cross-class option for the Alchemist looking for other ways to deal more damage.
I cannot seem to find Dispelling Strike, it might be Dispelling Attack which is less about the critical and more about the sneak attack.
Though I will concur that for the sake of WBL it would be more affordable with CM and UC.