Well the JDF Explorer arrived today! Big thanks to Puretime for quick shipping and QC.
Overall the watch looks good. Even with a loupe the only noticeable difference is the hour hand. As others have pointed out the genuine has a pointy hour hand, while the rep has the flat edge on the point.
Gen:
JDF:
I also had some issues with the easy-link system. It's extremely stiff and doesn't seem to lock into place. I tried to replace it with the easy-link from an old Milgauss bracelet, but alas it didn't fit Hopefully this is just a defect on my individual watch.
Which brings to my final point, it seems they got the lug width correct on this, as my inaccurate measurements indicate it is indeed 19mm (someone with calipers can do a more precise measurement.)
The highlight of the watch is of course the lume, which JDF did a great job with.
Currently I think this is the 36mm Explorer rep to get. I even find it better than some 39mm models (ARF). And the bracelet and finishing quality seems to be better than the BP 39 as well. Definitely keep this one on your radar if you like mid-size watches.
Finally, some pics!