This article presents theoretical and experimental research results of a variable axis vertical rotor with imbalance and artificially damaged deep groove ball bearings 6004-2Z/C3. The rotor imbalance has been varied from low level, permissible value according ISO 1940 and high value in order to determine how the magnitude of imbalance contributes to the bearing's outer ring raceway spalls masking defect. The general dynamic force acting in variable vertical rotational axis rotors composed of rotor mass gravity force and unbalance generated force. In order to increase rotor's defects diagnostic procedure accuracy and identification of technical condition of antifriction bearings absolute housings vibration measurement data transformed to the designed statistical parameter DVR (Defect Visibility Ratio).