Well, perseverance is the key (no pun intended), I went to two "Ace Hardware " stores. they knew exactly what I needed in terms of a Chubb or Tibbe key and told me the machine was $2000 with little demand and alas they did not have one. The last one gave me the name of a local locksmith company, went to visit and yes we do them, but the only individual who is trained to run this key cutter is out on jobs most all days. But, the manager is going to work it out and set up an "appointment", (must have car as well as original key to check operation). After a sucessful conclusion, I'll see if they have a list here in states of other shops who bought this hardware and post it.
Now, to complete the elusive top, and hopefully get the guy I've found to make my top before winter. Actually found a craftsman who understands how to do it. (I've tried the Robbins route...have a tan top that won't fit my car). keep you posted on results of this operation.