The Pirelli calendar for 2012

Pirelli has a lot more to offer than just tyres, they also provide their loyal customers with some motivation to get them through the day - think of it as a break from being nuts about bolts. Pinups have been used in automotive workshops for over forty years, both as a way to remember key dates and as an excuse to admire half naked women. The first Pirelli calendar was created in the early 1960's and throughout the years they have produced some artistic releases, despite the fact tyres have never appeared in any of the issues.

Mario Sorrenti shot the 2012 Calendar; carrying on the tradition of Pirelli’s personal organiser which has gained cult status thanks to the beautiful, nude women who adorn its pages. The featured models on the calendar include Kate Moss, Lara Stone, Isabeli Fontana, Guinevere Van Seenus, Malgosia, Edita Vilkeviciute, Natasha Poly, Rinko Kikuchi, Milla Jovovich, Margareth Madè, Joan Smalls and Saskia de Brauw; but unlike previous year's, Sorrenti's version differs as he strays away from the usual straightforward themes. Instead, he has chosen a more subtle approach which is complimented by simple shots that evoke natural beauty. The images are so elegant that I was almost convinced I'd just perused through a French Vogue calendar. There is plenty of nudity so I’d advise not clicking onto it at work. Otherwise enjoy!

Photographer Mario Sorrenti posing with models featured in the 2012 Pirelli calendar.

The making of the Pirelli 2012 calendar.